Reagent kits instead of animals. In vitro methods to replace in vivo tests for immunotoxicity testing

Objective

Approved international standards for toxicology and allergy screening tests are in vivo methods. The use of experimental animals in the pharmaceutical and cosmetic indus constitutes increasing problems. Tests on animals are unethical, expensive and give unrelia results. Recent documented research progress can result in development of alternative in v methods. Human blood cells in with an allergenic substance release cytoki These can be assayed with immunoanalysis. Continued research will focus on the explora of the principle for the development of in vitrs} assessment of allergenicity and toxicity. V the scientific basis established, methods will be developed to produce generally applicabli vitro tests. Extensive comparative studies will be performed between these in vitro meth and current government approved animal tests. The research, development and clinical study assume a co ordinated network project including several countries. These studies will aim getting European approval for these in vitro methods as new standards. The advantages of methods will benefit the European pharmaceutical, cosmetic, food and chemical industries.

Programme(s)

• FP4-BIOMED 2 - Specific research, technological development and demonstration programme in the field of biomedicine and health, 1994-1998

Funding Scheme

EAW - Exploratory awards

Coordinator

Biovator AB (Aktiebolag)

Address

8C,arsenalsgatan
103 32 Stockholm
Sweden

Participants (2)

B R A H M S Diagnostica GmbH

Germany

Address

19-20,Komturstrasse
12099 Berlin

Boule Diagnostics AB

Sweden

Address

3,Lunastigen
141 44 Huddinge