Such methods are expected to provide improved hazard identification and dose-response information. Many new alternative methods in some stage of development or validation by the NTP are described in this and other chapters of the Annual Plan. The NTP continues to conduct validation studies on promising new methods to determine their usefulness in toxicological testing. Validation studies are conducted to evaluate usefulness of a new test method for a specified use. The utility of any such assay is predicated on confidence that the assay is measuring what it is intended to measure, and on the repeatability and reproducibility of the assay in and among laboratories.
Scientific validation is a prerequisite for the eventual regulatory acceptance of new test methods.
Emphasis is on toxicological test methods that will enhance agencies' ability to assess risks and make decisions, and that will refine, reduce, and replace animal use whenever possible. Local Lymph Node Assay, a method for assessing skin sensitivity potential of chemicals. The first meeting of the Advisory Committee was held in September 1998. Special emphasis is given to studying Reproductive and Developmental Toxicity, General Toxicity including Carcinogenesis, Immunotoxicity, and Neurotoxicity of these agents. Many of the ongoing and planned studies are with combination therapeutics.