Ethical principles and scientific advancements: In vitro, in silico, and non-vertebrate animal approaches for a green ecotoxicology

Abstract

The ethical considerations inherent in the use of living organisms in research, particularly in the field of ecotoxicology, have prompted a paradigm shift towards more sustainable methodologies. This perspective explores the intersection of ethical principles and scientific advancements in ecotoxicological research, emphasizing the advocacy for non-vertebrate animals, in vitro and in silico alternatives. In vitro methods, which utilize isolated cells, tissues, or organs, and in silico approaches, involving computational simulations, present viable alternatives that align with the principles of Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement (3Rs). Additionally, the inclusion of non-vertebrate animals in ecotoxicological studies further expands the scope of ethical considerations. This advocacy reflects a commitment to minimizing the environmental impact of ecotoxicological studies while advancing scientific understanding. The integration of these alternative methods not only addresses ethical concerns but also contributes to the reduction of animal testing, allowing for more precise control over experimental conditions. As technological capabilities and validation efforts progress, the combined ethical and scientific advantages of in vitro, in silico, and non-vertebrate animal approaches stand as instrumental components in the evolution of ecotoxicological research methodologies.