Alternative Testing Models

NTP implements a variety of testing strategies to acquire data about potentially hazardous environmental and occupational substances. These strategies provide additional or more accurate information, strengthen the science base, and inform regulatory decisions.

The purpose of alternative test systems for toxicological research is to replace, reduce, or refine animal use. Systems under development include:

• Computer-based predictive toxicology models
• In vitro cell- and tissue-based systems
• Transcriptomic profiling
• Microphysiological systems ("organs-on-a-chip")
• Fish embryo models