Towards grouping concepts based on new approach methodologies in chemical hazard assessment: the read-across approach of the EU-ToxRisk project: editorial

Read-across is one of the most frequently used alternative tools for hazard assessment, in particular for complex endpoints such as repeated dose or developmental and reproductive toxicity. Read-across extrapolates the outcome of a specific toxicological in vivo endpoint from tested (source) compounds to “similar” (target) compound(s). If...

A high throughput screening system for predicting chemically-induced reproductive organ deformities

There is a great need for alternative testing methods for reproductive toxicants that are practical, fast, cost-effective and easy to interpret. Previously we followed a pragmatic approach using readily available tests, which was successful in predicting reproductive toxicity of chemicals [13]. This initial battery still contained apical tests...

Evaluation of an alternative in vitro test battery for detecting reproductive toxicants in a grouping context

Previously we showed a battery consisting of CALUX transcriptional activation assays, the ReProGlo assay, and the embryonic stem cell test, and zebrafish embryotoxicity assay as 'apical' tests to correctly predict developmental toxicity for 11 out of 12 compounds, and to explain the one false negative [7]. Here we report on applying this battery...

Next-generation text-mining mediated generation of chemical response-specific gene sets for interpretation of gene expression data

Background: Availability of chemical response-specific lists of genes (gene sets) for pharmacological and/or toxic effect prediction for compounds is limited. We hypothesize that more gene sets can be created by next-generation text mining (next-gen TM), and that these can be used with gene set analysis (GSA) methods for chemical treatment...

Xenobiotic metabolism in human skin and 3D human skin reconstructs: A review

In this review, we discuss and compare studies of xenobiotic metabolism in both human skin and 3D human skin reconstructs. In comparison to the liver, the skin is a less studied organ in terms of characterising metabolic capability. While the skin forms the major protective barrier to environmental chemical exposure, it is also a potential...

Physiologically-based kinetic modelling (PBK modelling): Meeting the 3Rs agenda. The report and recommendations of ECVAM workshop 63

Dermal Exposure to Chemicals

Chemicals / CAS: 4,4' methylenedianiline, 101-77-9; Hazardous Substances.

Dermal Exposure during Filling, Loading and Brushing with Products Containing 2-(2-Butoxyethoxy)ethanol

Introduction: Limited quantitative information is available on dermal exposure to chemicals during various industrial activities. Therefore, within the scope of the EU-funded RISKOFDERM project, potential dermal exposure was measured during three different tasks: filling, loading and brushing. DEGBE (2-(2-butoxyethoxy)ethanol) was used as a ...

Variability of Task-based Dermal Exposure Measurements from a Variety of Workplaces

Introduction: The RISKOFDERM project collected task-based estimates of potential dermal exposure from a wide range of industries and services from around Europe. A formal statistical analysis was carried out to explore the main components of variability in dermal exposure levels. The central research question was to what extent dermal exposure...

Protection of rats against perfluoroisobutene (PFIB)-induced pulmonary edema by Curosurf and N-acetylcysteine

Airborne exposure to lung-toxic agents may damage the lung surfactant system and epithelial and endothelial cells, resulting in a life-threatening pulmonary edema that is known to be refractory to treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate in rats (1) the respiratory injury caused by nose-only exposure to perfluoroisobutene (PFIB), and ...

Exposure to combinations of substances: A system for assessing health risks

Combined exposures may be categorised as specified combinations or mixtures of substances, depending on composition and exposure scenario. The major characteristic of a specified combination is known composition and that of a mixture simultaneous exposure. A framework was developed as a guide for safety evaluation of combined exposures. This...

Percutaneous penetration studies for risk assessment

During the last few years the general interest in the percutaneous absorption of chemicals has increased. It is generally accepted that there is very few reliable quantitative and qualitative data on dermal exposure to chemicals in the general population and in occupationally exposed workers. In order to predict the systemic risk of dermally...

Toxicology of chemical mixtures: International perspective

This paper reviews major activities outside the United States on human health issues related to chemical mixtures. In Europe an international study group on combination effects has been formed and has started by defining synergism and antagonism. Successful research programs in Europe include the development and application of statistically...

Assessment of dermal and inhalation exposure to zineb/maneb in the cultivation of flower bulbs

In bulb farming the use of pesticides for crop protection and bulb disinfection is extensive. To estimate long-term occupational exposure to pesticides, generic levels of exposure specific to the method of working were needed. In order to derive these values, dermal and inhalation exposure was the fungicide mixture zineb/maneb was assessed for...