SYRCLE (Systematic Review Centre for Laboratory animal Experimentation; Radboud UMC, Nijmegen, the Netherlands) was officially founded in 2012. Already in 2008/2009 the center had shifted its previous focus from the 3Rs towards the conduct of systematic reviews, because these reviews provide a method to identify, select, appraise and synthesise all available research evidence.

In our view, SRs not only facilitate the implementation of the 3Rs, they may also help to improve the methodological quality of animal studies and – last but not least – aid in securing the treatment and safety of human patients. To promote the conduct of systematic reviews in preclinical research, SYRCLE (1) offers education, including (online) introductions, hands-on training as well as coaching of researchers conducting their own SRs, (2) develops methodological tools and guidelines and (3) conducts its own systematic reviews of animal studies.

SYRCLE is leading in teaching and coaching at a worldwide level, and has developed the first e-learning on systematic reviews of animal studies. A global SYRCLE ambassador network has been established with currently 24 ambassadors in 12 countries. Ambassadors stimulate education in this field in their home countries and regions.

SYRCLE coordinates the application for an animal study methods group in Cochrane, and also participates in the Evidence-based research network Evidence-based toxicology collaboration and Evidence Synthesis International.