Chemical reactivity measurement and the predictive identification of skin sensitisers

Abstract

This is the 64th Report of a series of workshops organised by the European Centre for the Validation of Alternative Methods (ECVAM). The main objective of ECVAM, as defined in 1993 by its Scientific Advisory Committee (ESAC), is to promote the scientific and regulatory acceptance of alternative methods, which have scientific relevance and which reduce, refine or replace the use of laboratory animals. One of the first priorities set by ECVAM was the implementation of procedures that would enable it to become well informed about the state-of-the-art of non-animal test development and validation, and the opportunities for the possible incorporation of alternative methods into regulatory procedures. It was decided that this would be best achieved through a programme of ECVAM workshops, each addressing a specific topic, at which selected groups of independent international experts would review the current status of various types of in vitro tests and their potential uses, and make recommendations about the best way forward. A workshop on Chemical Reactivity Measurement and the Predictive Identification of Skin Sensitisers was held at ECVAM on 23-25 May 2007, under the chairmanship of Frank Gerberick. The workshop was attended by experts from academia, national organisations, and industries. The aim of the workshop was to review the state-of-the-art of methods for the identification of skin sensitisers based on measurements of chemical reactivity. Furthermore, consideration was given as to how such methods could contribute to integrated testing strategies for the eventual replacement of in vivo testing. A number of recommendations listed at the end of the report are intended to promote the progress of relevant and reliable methods toward prevalidation and validation.