Colipa non-animal test research

The results of trials on three non-animal assays - two based on cell lines and one on a peptide binding system - to predict and quantify sensitizing potential of chemicals are "robust" enough to enter into the European Center for the Validation of Alternative Methods (ECVAM) validation process, the European Cosmetic Toiletry and Perfumery Association (Colipa) states Jan. 11. "If successful, this immunological approach may provide an alternative and user-friendly system for the detection of protein reactive chemicals," Colipa notes. The association is initiating a formal discussion with ECVAM to plan a timeline for pre-validation/validation of the assays. The two organizations will also hold a joint workshop in 2008 on integrative testing strategies and their use in skin sensitization risk assessment approaches. Colipa is supervising six research areas in its efforts to identify skin sensitizing chemicals. Last year, ECVAM validated a number of testing methods that reduce or eliminate animals, including the Episkin human skin model (1"The Rose Sheet" May 7, 2007, p. 4)...