On June 15, 2026, the National Institutes of Health (NIH) announced that moving forward, NICEATM will continue its important work as a division of the newly created NIH Office of Research Innovation, Validation, and Application (ORIVA). Soon, NICEATM content that you see on this webpage will be transitioned to the NIH ORIVA webpage. In the meantime, you can learn more about the new office and how it is structured.

https://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/go/iccvam-biologics

Alternative Methods for Biologics & Vaccine Testing

Testing to ensure the effectiveness and safety of vaccines and other biologics often requires the use of large numbers of animals, many of which experience significant pain and distress during testing. NICEATM and ICCVAM work with stakeholders to identify methods for biologics and vaccine testing that can replace, reduce, or refine animal use.

Descriptions

Composite image of bottle with simulated chemical strands exiting lid

Detection & Measurement of Botulinum Neurotoxin

Tests to detect and measure BoNT are required by multiple federal agencies. NICEATM and ICCVAM work with stakeholders to identify alternatives to the standard mouse test. Learn more. Go
Petri dish with blue liquid surrounded by multiple petri dishes filled with pink liquid

Accepted Alternative Methods for Biologics & Vaccine Testing

ICCVAM agencies have published methods and guidance that can replace, reduce, or refine animal use for vaccine and biologics testing. Learn more. Go
  • NICEATM Vaccine Workshops
    NICEATM and collaborators organized workshops reviewing alternatives to animal testing for vaccines. Materials from these workshops are available on the NTP All Past Events webpage.