New database of alternatives to animal testing online
A database of alternative methods to animal experiments has been published online by the European Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods (ECVAM), a body within the European Commission's Joint Research Centre (JRC). The service provides factual information, presented as evaluated data sheets on various aspects of advanced and alternative techniques for toxicology assessments. It is expected to be of particular interest to national authorities, the scientific community and the animal welfare movement. The database includes method-summary descriptions and protocols for their performance, evaluation studies, details on formal validation studies and individual test results. The facility is likely to take on increased significance with the implementation of the REACH Directive on chemicals. The obligation to test chemicals will mean a rise in animal testing in the short term. The Commission has however stated that it is committed to finding more alternative methods for chemicals testing.