Central Animal Laboratory
Central Animal Laboratory of the University of Turku provides services to biomedical research by supplying and producing laboratory animals.
The well trained and qualified personnel take care of the laboratory animals with consideration given to their welfare. The staff assists research groups in experimental procedures and, if necessary, carries out the whole experiment. Research groups are guided in the ethical use of laboratory animals and supported in technical questions regarding the use and handling of animals.
According to legislation, the Central Animal Laboratory (CAL) provides training in the theory and practice of care and use of laboratory animals for researchers and technicians, as well as voluntary workshop on handling lab animals.
In addition, CAL provides services for external clients based on different agreements and, if required,in compliance with OECD guidelines fulfilling GLP (Good Laboratory Practice) requirements.
Laboratory ensures that all the procedures are performed in accordance with internal and external quality assurance and follow the 3 R’s principals:
- REFINEMENT: methods which minimise suffering and improve animal welfare
- REDUCTION: methods which minimise the number of animals used per experiment
- REPLACEMENT: methods which avoid or replace the use of animals