The ILAR Journal is the peer-reviewed, theme-oriented publication of the Institute for Laboratory Animal Research (ILAR), which provides timely information for all who study, use, care for, and oversee the use of animals in research. The journal publishes original articles that review research on animals either as direct subjects or as surrogates for humans. According to policy, any previously unpublished animal research reported in the ILAR Journal will have been conducted according to the scientific, technical, and humanely appropriate guidelines current at the time the research was conducted in accordance with the Guide for the Care and Use of Laboratory Animals or other guidance provided by taxonomically-oriented professional societies (e.g., American Society of Mammalogy) as referenced in the Guide.
ILAR was founded in 1952 under the auspices of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences. ILAR promotes the high-quality and humane care and use of animals in research and the appropriate consideration and use of alternatives. Through the ILAR Journal, expert committee reports, workshops, presentations, and other means, ILAR identifies and disseminates science for improved animal welfare and evaluates and encourages the development and validation of non-animal alternatives in research and testing.
The National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine work together to provide independent, objective analysis and advice to the nation and conduct other activities to solve complex problems and inform public policy decisions. The Academies also encourage education and research, recognize outstanding contributions to knowledge, and increase public understanding in matters of science, engineering, and medicine.

Opinions expressed in this journal are not necessarily those of ILAR or the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.