The History of Alternative Test Methods in Toxicology

The History of Alternative Test Methods in Toxicology, a volume in the History of Toxicology and Environmental Health series explores the evolution of alternative test methods that came about as a result of William Russell and Rex Burch’s classic volume, The Principles of Humane Experimental Technique(1959). Biological and computational systems and ethical human studies are discussed in terms of their integrated use in intelligent testing strategies, along with their potential to offer an escape from a reliance on animal models, which are of limited relevance and reliability because of profound species differences.

This book focuses on using base toxicity predictions, as well as safety assessments on methods of direct relevance to what really happens in humans. Well established scientists present an historical and chronological perspective, providing important reading for all researchers, students and others interested in the safety evaluation of chemicals, medicines, vaccines, cosmetics, pesticides and other chemical products.

Covers each global region in a systematic fashion, showing how regions compare in terms of problems faced and resolution approaches Includes a thorough chronology of alternatives research, thus providing a complete overviewFocuses on methods of direct relevance to humans to address issues of efficacy and waste

Section 1 - concept of humane experimental technique, types of toxicity and key technologies.

Section 2 - 15 chapters on global contributions (scientific societies; national validation centres, key laboratories and regulatory bodies).

Section 3 - special areas of interest - chapters on cosmetics, drugs, food safety, inhalation toxicity, carcinogenicity and reproductive toxicology, biologicals, and clinical (human) studies.

Data mining and sharing section - chapters on databases and scientific journals.

Key technologies section: 5 chapters on microphysiology, computational methods, integrated testing strategies, and validation, and the book ends with chapters on lessons learned and future prospects