CHRONIC advanced ERA by integrating mechanistic understanding, non-conventional endpoints, and multi-stressor scenarios. It moved beyond traditional short-term toxicity testing by applying AOPs to link molecular changes to ecological effects. Experimental systems enabled assessment of behavioural, immunological, and epigenetic endpoints under chronic exposure to metals, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, and radionuclides.
CHRONIC officially ended on August 31, 2025, having delivered all planned outputs. However, several ESRs are still completing their PhDs due to delayed starts, part-time employment, or 4-year programmes.
As of October 2025:
• 2 ESRs have defended, 1 has submitted, 8 will submit by March 2026, and 2 by October 2026.
Expected results include:
• Completion of all 13 PhD theses.
• Additional publications and outreach materials.
• Continued dissemination of tools and stakeholder outputs.
• Policy-relevant contributions to OECD guidelines and ERA frameworks.
• Ongoing engagement via SETAC and open-access platforms.
CHRONIC trained interdisciplinary ERA professionals ready to work across sectors. Its findings support safer chemical use, biodiversity protection, and public trust. Stakeholder engagement included:
• Final workshop with 37 participants.
• Outreach article for SETAC Globe.
• Engagement with EFSA, ECHA, NGOs, and industry.
Policy contributions include:
• Proposed updates to OECD guidelines.
• Support for behavioural and genetic markers in ERA.
• Recommendations for multi-stressor and multigenerational testing.
In summary, CHRONIC has laid the foundation for a more inclusive, mechanistic, and ecologically relevant ERA framework. Its legacy includes methodological advances, policy contributions, and a cohort of skilled researchers ready to shape the future of chemical risk assessment in Europe and beyond.
