1
|
Alver CG, Drabbe E, Ishahak M, Agarwal A. Roadblocks confronting widespread dissemination and deployment of Organs on Chips. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5118. [PMID: 38879554 PMCID: PMC11180125 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-48864-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Organ on Chip platforms hold significant promise as alternatives to animal models or traditional cell cultures, both of which poorly recapitulate human pathophysiology and human level responses. Within the last 15 years, we have witnessed seminal scientific developments from academic laboratories, a flurry of startups and investments, and a genuine interest from pharmaceutical industry as well as regulatory authorities to translate these platforms. This Perspective identifies several fundamental design and process features that may act as roadblocks that prevent widespread dissemination and deployment of these systems, and provides a roadmap to help position this technology in mainstream drug discovery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Charles G Alver
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
- Medical Scientist Training Program, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Emma Drabbe
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Matthew Ishahak
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA
| | - Ashutosh Agarwal
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Miami, Coral Gables, FL, USA.
- Desai Sethi Urology Institute, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, Miami, FL, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Pamies D, Ekert J, Zurich MG, Frey O, Werner S, Piergiovanni M, Freedman BS, Keong Teo AK, Erfurth H, Reyes DR, Loskill P, Candarlioglu P, Suter-Dick L, Wang S, Hartung T, Coecke S, Stacey GN, Wagegg BA, Dehne EM, Pistollato F, Leist M. Recommendations on fit-for-purpose criteria to establish quality management for microphysiological systems and for monitoring their reproducibility. Stem Cell Reports 2024; 19:604-617. [PMID: 38670111 PMCID: PMC11103889 DOI: 10.1016/j.stemcr.2024.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 03/28/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 04/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Cell culture technology has evolved, moving from single-cell and monolayer methods to 3D models like reaggregates, spheroids, and organoids, improved with bioengineering like microfabrication and bioprinting. These advancements, termed microphysiological systems (MPSs), closely replicate tissue environments and human physiology, enhancing research and biomedical uses. However, MPS complexity introduces standardization challenges, impacting reproducibility and trust. We offer guidelines for quality management and control criteria specific to MPSs, facilitating reliable outcomes without stifling innovation. Our fit-for-purpose recommendations provide actionable advice for achieving consistent MPS performance.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- David Pamies
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology (SCAHT), Basel, Switzerland.
| | - Jason Ekert
- Jason E Ekert: UCB Pharma, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Marie-Gabrielle Zurich
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland; Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology (SCAHT), Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Sophie Werner
- Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology (SCAHT), Basel, Switzerland; University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Life Sciences, Muttenz, Switzerland; Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Basel, Basel, Switzerland
| | | | - Benjamin S Freedman
- Division of Nephrology, Kidney Research Institute, and Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA 98109, USA; Plurexa LLC, Seattle, WA 98109, USA
| | - Adrian Kee Keong Teo
- Stem Cells and Diabetes Laboratory, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology (IMCB), Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A(∗)STAR), Proteos, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Biochemistry, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore; Precision Medicine Translational Research Programme (TRP), Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | | | - Darwin R Reyes
- National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | - Peter Loskill
- NMI Natural and Medical Sciences Institute at the University of Tübingen, Reutlingen, Germany; Department for Microphysiological Systems, Institute of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Medicine, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany; 3R Center for In Vitro Models and Alternatives to Animal Testing, Eberhard Karls University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | | | - Laura Suter-Dick
- Swiss Centre for Applied Human Toxicology (SCAHT), Basel, Switzerland; University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland, School of Life Sciences, Muttenz, Switzerland
| | - Shan Wang
- Department of Biomedical Science, University of Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Hartung
- Doerenkamp-Zbinden Professor and Chair for Evidence-based Toxicology, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health and Whiting School of Engineering, Baltimore, MD, USA; CAAT Europe, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Sandra Coecke
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Glyn N Stacey
- International Stem Cell Banking Initiative, 2 High Street, Barley, Herts SG88HZ, UK; National Stem Cell Resource Centre, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China; Institute for Stem Cell and Regenerative Merdicine, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, China
| | | | | | | | - Marcel Leist
- CAAT Europe, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany; In vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Department inaugurated by the Doerenkamp-Zbinden foundation, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Serafini MM, Sepehri S, Midali M, Stinckens M, Biesiekierska M, Wolniakowska A, Gatzios A, Rundén-Pran E, Reszka E, Marinovich M, Vanhaecke T, Roszak J, Viviani B, SenGupta T. Recent advances and current challenges of new approach methodologies in developmental and adult neurotoxicity testing. Arch Toxicol 2024; 98:1271-1295. [PMID: 38480536 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-024-03703-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
Adult neurotoxicity (ANT) and developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) assessments aim to understand the adverse effects and underlying mechanisms of toxicants on the human nervous system. In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on the so-called new approach methodologies (NAMs). The Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), together with European and American regulatory agencies, promote the use of validated alternative test systems, but to date, guidelines for regulatory DNT and ANT assessment rely primarily on classical animal testing. Alternative methods include both non-animal approaches and test systems on non-vertebrates (e.g., nematodes) or non-mammals (e.g., fish). Therefore, this review summarizes the recent advances of NAMs focusing on ANT and DNT and highlights the potential and current critical issues for the full implementation of these methods in the future. The status of the DNT in vitro battery (DNT IVB) is also reviewed as a first step of NAMs for the assessment of neurotoxicity in the regulatory context. Critical issues such as (i) the need for test batteries and method integration (from in silico and in vitro to in vivo alternatives, e.g., zebrafish, C. elegans) requiring interdisciplinarity to manage complexity, (ii) interlaboratory transferability, and (iii) the urgent need for method validation are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Melania Maria Serafini
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Sara Sepehri
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology (IVTD), Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Miriam Midali
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Marth Stinckens
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology (IVTD), Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marta Biesiekierska
- Department of Translational Research, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - Anna Wolniakowska
- Department of Translational Research, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - Alexandra Gatzios
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology (IVTD), Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Elise Rundén-Pran
- The Climate and Environmental Research Institute NILU, Kjeller, Norway
| | - Edyta Reszka
- Department of Translational Research, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - Marina Marinovich
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Center of Research on New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) in chemical risk assessment (SAFE-MI), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Tamara Vanhaecke
- Department of In Vitro Toxicology and Dermato-Cosmetology (IVTD), Vrije Universiteit Brussels, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Joanna Roszak
- Department of Translational Research, Nofer Institute of Occupational Medicine, Lodz, Poland
| | - Barbara Viviani
- Department of Pharmacological and Biomolecular Sciences, "Rodolfo Paoletti", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
- Center of Research on New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) in chemical risk assessment (SAFE-MI), Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Tanima SenGupta
- The Climate and Environmental Research Institute NILU, Kjeller, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Wassenaar PNH, Minnema J, Vriend J, Peijnenburg WJGM, Pennings JLA, Kienhuis A. The role of trust in the use of artificial intelligence for chemical risk assessment. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2024; 148:105589. [PMID: 38403009 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2024.105589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/21/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
Risk assessment of chemicals is a time-consuming process and needs to be optimized to ensure all chemicals are timely evaluated and regulated. This transition could be stimulated by valuable applications of in silico Artificial Intelligence (AI)/Machine Learning (ML) models. However, implementation of AI/ML models in risk assessment is lagging behind. Most AI/ML models are considered 'black boxes' that lack mechanistical explainability, causing risk assessors to have insufficient trust in their predictions. Here, we explore 'trust' as an essential factor towards regulatory acceptance of AI/ML models. We provide an overview of the elements of trust, including technical and beyond-technical aspects, and highlight elements that are considered most important to build trust by risk assessors. The results provide recommendations for risk assessors and computational modelers for future development of AI/ML models, including: 1) Keep models simple and interpretable; 2) Offer transparency in the data and data curation; 3) Clearly define and communicate the scope/intended purpose; 4) Define adoption criteria; 5) Make models accessible and user-friendly; 6) Demonstrate the added value in practical settings; and 7) Engage in interdisciplinary settings. These recommendations should ideally be acknowledged in future developments to stimulate trust and acceptance of AI/ML models for regulatory purposes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pim N H Wassenaar
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, the Netherlands.
| | - Jordi Minnema
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Jelle Vriend
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Willie J G M Peijnenburg
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, the Netherlands; Institute of Environmental Sciences (CML), Leiden University, P. O. Box 9518, 2300 RA, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Jeroen L A Pennings
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | - Anne Kienhuis
- National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Lim AY, Kato Y, Sakolish C, Valdiviezo A, Han G, Bajaj P, Stanko J, Ferguson SS, Villenave R, Hewitt P, Hardwick RN, Rusyn I. Reproducibility and Robustness of a Liver Microphysiological System PhysioMimix LC12 under Varying Culture Conditions and Cell Type Combinations. Bioengineering (Basel) 2023; 10:1195. [PMID: 37892925 PMCID: PMC10603899 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering10101195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The liver is one of the key organs for exogenous and endogenous metabolism and is often a target for drug- and chemical-driven toxicity. A wide range of experimental approaches has been established to model and characterize the mechanisms of drug- and chemical-induced hepatotoxicity. A number of microfluidics-enabled in vitro models of the liver have been developed, but the unclear translatability of these platforms has hindered their adoption by the pharmaceutical industry; to achieve wide use for drug and chemical safety evaluation, demonstration of reproducibility and robustness under various contexts of use is required. One of these commercially available platforms is the PhysioMimix LC12, a microfluidic device where cells are seeded into a 3D scaffold that is continuously perfused with recirculating cell culture media to mimic liver sinusoids. Previous studies demonstrated this model's functionality and potential applicability to preclinical drug development. However, to gain confidence in PhysioMimix LC12's robustness and reproducibility, supplementary characterization steps are needed, including the assessment of various human hepatocyte sources, contribution of non-parenchymal cells (NPCs), and comparison to other models. In this study, we performed replicate studies averaging 14 days with either primary human hepatocytes (PHHs) or induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC)-derived hepatocytes, with and without NPCs. Albumin and urea secretion, lactate dehydrogenase, CYP3A4 activity, and metabolism were evaluated to assess basal function and metabolic capacity. Model performance was characterized by different cell combinations under intra- and inter-experimental replication and compared to multi-well plates and other liver platforms. PhysioMimix LC12 demonstrated the highest metabolic function with PHHs, with or without THP-1 or Kupffer cells, for up to 10-14 days. iPSC-derived hepatocytes and PHHs co-cultured with additional NPCs demonstrated sub-optimal performance. Power analyses based on replicate experiments and different contexts of use will inform future study designs due to the limited throughput and high cell demand. Overall, this study describes a workflow for independent testing of a complex microphysiological system for specific contexts of use, which may increase end-user adoption in drug development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Y. Lim
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Yuki Kato
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
- Laboratory for Drug Discovery and Development, Shionogi Pharmaceutical Research Center, Shionogi & Co., Ltd., Osaka 561-0825, Japan
| | - Courtney Sakolish
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Alan Valdiviezo
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Gang Han
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| | - Piyush Bajaj
- Global Investigative Toxicology, Preclinical Safety, Sanofi, Cambridge, MA 02141, USA
| | - Jason Stanko
- Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Stephen S. Ferguson
- Division of Translational Toxicology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, Durham, NC 27709, USA
| | - Remi Villenave
- Roche Pharma Research and Early Development, Roche Innovation Center Basel, F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., 4070 Basel, Switzerland
| | - Philip Hewitt
- Chemical and Preclinical Safety, Merck Healthcare KGaA, 64293 Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Rhiannon N. Hardwick
- Discovery Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Candidate Optimization, Bristol Myers Squibb, San Diego, CA 92121, USA
| | - Ivan Rusyn
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Schmeisser S, Miccoli A, von Bergen M, Berggren E, Braeuning A, Busch W, Desaintes C, Gourmelon A, Grafström R, Harrill J, Hartung T, Herzler M, Kass GEN, Kleinstreuer N, Leist M, Luijten M, Marx-Stoelting P, Poetz O, van Ravenzwaay B, Roggeband R, Rogiers V, Roth A, Sanders P, Thomas RS, Marie Vinggaard A, Vinken M, van de Water B, Luch A, Tralau T. New approach methodologies in human regulatory toxicology - Not if, but how and when! ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2023; 178:108082. [PMID: 37422975 PMCID: PMC10858683 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2023.108082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 26.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Revised: 06/30/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2023] [Indexed: 07/11/2023]
Abstract
The predominantly animal-centric approach of chemical safety assessment has increasingly come under pressure. Society is questioning overall performance, sustainability, continued relevance for human health risk assessment and ethics of this system, demanding a change of paradigm. At the same time, the scientific toolbox used for risk assessment is continuously enriched by the development of "New Approach Methodologies" (NAMs). While this term does not define the age or the state of readiness of the innovation, it covers a wide range of methods, including quantitative structure-activity relationship (QSAR) predictions, high-throughput screening (HTS) bioassays, omics applications, cell cultures, organoids, microphysiological systems (MPS), machine learning models and artificial intelligence (AI). In addition to promising faster and more efficient toxicity testing, NAMs have the potential to fundamentally transform today's regulatory work by allowing more human-relevant decision-making in terms of both hazard and exposure assessment. Yet, several obstacles hamper a broader application of NAMs in current regulatory risk assessment. Constraints in addressing repeated-dose toxicity, with particular reference to the chronic toxicity, and hesitance from relevant stakeholders, are major challenges for the implementation of NAMs in a broader context. Moreover, issues regarding predictivity, reproducibility and quantification need to be addressed and regulatory and legislative frameworks need to be adapted to NAMs. The conceptual perspective presented here has its focus on hazard assessment and is grounded on the main findings and conclusions from a symposium and workshop held in Berlin in November 2021. It intends to provide further insights into how NAMs can be gradually integrated into chemical risk assessment aimed at protection of human health, until eventually the current paradigm is replaced by an animal-free "Next Generation Risk Assessment" (NGRA).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrea Miccoli
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany; National Research Council, Ancona, Italy
| | - Martin von Bergen
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany; German Centre for Integrative Biodiversity Research (iDiv) Halle-Jena-Leipzig, Leipzig, Germany; University of Leipzig, Faculty of Life Sciences, Institute of Biochemistry, Leipzig, Germany
| | | | - Albert Braeuning
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Wibke Busch
- Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research-UFZ, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Christian Desaintes
- European Commission (EC), Directorate General for Research and Innovation (RTD), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Anne Gourmelon
- Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), Environment Directorate, Paris, France
| | | | - Joshua Harrill
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure (CCTE), United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Durham, USA
| | - Thomas Hartung
- Center for Alternatives to Animal Testing (CAAT), Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health Baltimore MD USA, CAAT-Europe, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Matthias Herzler
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | | | - Nicole Kleinstreuer
- NTP Interagency Center for the Evaluation of Alternative Toxicological Methods (NICEATM), National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Durham, USA
| | - Marcel Leist
- CAAT‑Europe and Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Mirjam Luijten
- Centre for Health Protection, National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
| | | | - Oliver Poetz
- NMI Natural and Medical Science Institute at the University of Tuebingen, Reutlingen, Germany; SIGNATOPE GmbH, Reutlingen, Germany
| | | | - Rob Roggeband
- European Partnership for Alternative Approaches to Animal Testing (EPAA), Procter and Gamble Services Company NV/SA, Strombeek-Bever, Belgium
| | - Vera Rogiers
- Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Brussels, Belgium
| | - Adrian Roth
- F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd, Basel, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Sanders
- Fougeres Laboratory, French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety (ANSES), Fougères, France France
| | - Russell S Thomas
- Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure (CCTE), United States Environmental Protection Agency (US EPA), Durham, USA
| | | | | | | | - Andreas Luch
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Tewes Tralau
- German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Berggren E, Worth AP. Towards a future regulatory framework for chemicals in the European Union - Chemicals 2.0. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2023:105431. [PMID: 37315707 PMCID: PMC10390824 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2023.105431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Revised: 06/03/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The body of EU chemicals legislation has evolved since the 1960s, producing the largest knowledge base on chemicals worldwide. Like any evolving system, however, it has become increasingly diverse and complex, resulting in inefficiencies and potential inconsistencies. In the light of the EU Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability, it is therefore timely and reasonable to consider how aspects of the system could be simplified and streamlined, without losing the hard-earned benefits to human health and the environment. In this commentary, we propose a conceptual framework that could be the basis of Chemicals 2.0 - a future safety assessment and management approach that is based on the application of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), mechanistic reasoning and cost-benefit considerations. Chemicals 2.0 is designed to be a more efficient and more effective approach for assessing chemicals, and to comply with the EU goal to completely replace animal testing, in line with Directive 2010/63/EU. We propose five design criteria for Chemicals 2.0 to define what the future system should achieve. The approach is centered on a classification matrix in which NAMs for toxicodynamics and toxicokinetics are used to classify chemicals according to their level of concern. An important principle is the need to ensure an equivalent, or higher, protection level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew P Worth
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Carnesecchi E, Langezaal I, Browne P, Batista-Leite S, Campia I, Coecke S, Dagallier B, Deceuninck P, Dorne JLC, Tarazona JV, Le Goff F, Leinala E, Morath S, Munn S, Richardson J, Paini A, Wittwehr C. OECD harmonised template 201: Structuring and reporting mechanistic information to foster the integration of new approach methodologies for hazard and risk assessment of chemicals. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2023:105426. [PMID: 37277057 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2023.105426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
In the European Union, the Chemicals Strategy for Sustainability (CSS) highlights the need to enhance the identification and assessment of substances of concern while reducing animal testing, thus fostering the development and use of New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) such as in silico, in vitro and in chemico. In the United States, the Tox21 strategy aims at shifting toxicological assessments away from traditional animal studies towards target-specific, mechanism-based and biological observations mainly obtained by using NAMs. Many other jurisdictions around the world are also increasing the use of NAMs. Hence, the provision of dedicated non-animal toxicological data and reporting formats as a basis for chemical risk assessment is necessary. Harmonising data reporting is crucial when aiming at re-using and sharing data for chemical risk assessment across jurisdictions. The OECD has developed a series of OECD Harmonised Templates (OHT), which are standard data formats designed for reporting information used for the risk assessment of chemicals relevant to their intrinsic properties, including effects on human health (e.g., toxicokinetics, skin sensitisation, repeated dose toxicity) and the environment (e.g., toxicity to test species and wildlife, biodegradation in soil, metabolism of residues in crops). The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the applicability of the OHT standard format for reporting information under various chemical risk assessment regimes, and to provide users with practical guidance on the use of OHT 201, in particular to report test results on intermediate effects and mechanistic information.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Edoardo Carnesecchi
- Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Environment Directorate, 75775, Paris CEDEX 16, France.
| | | | - Patience Browne
- Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Environment Directorate, 75775, Paris CEDEX 16, France
| | | | - Ivana Campia
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Sandra Coecke
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Bertrand Dagallier
- Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Environment Directorate, 75775, Paris CEDEX 16, France
| | | | - Jean Lou Cm Dorne
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Via Carlo Magno, 1A, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Jose V Tarazona
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Via Carlo Magno, 1A, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Francois Le Goff
- European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), Telakkakatu 6, P.O. Box 400, FI-0012, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Eeva Leinala
- Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Environment Directorate, 75775, Paris CEDEX 16, France
| | | | - Sharon Munn
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Jane Richardson
- European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), Via Carlo Magno, 1A, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Alicia Paini
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | | |
Collapse
|
9
|
Blum J, Masjosthusmann S, Bartmann K, Bendt F, Dolde X, Dönmez A, Förster N, Holzer AK, Hübenthal U, Keßel HE, Kilic S, Klose J, Pahl M, Stürzl LC, Mangas I, Terron A, Crofton KM, Scholze M, Mosig A, Leist M, Fritsche E. Establishment of a human cell-based in vitro battery to assess developmental neurotoxicity hazard of chemicals. CHEMOSPHERE 2023; 311:137035. [PMID: 36328314 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.137035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2022] [Revised: 10/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/24/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Developmental neurotoxicity (DNT) is a major safety concern for all chemicals of the human exposome. However, DNT data from animal studies are available for only a small percentage of manufactured compounds. Test methods with a higher throughput than current regulatory guideline methods, and with improved human relevance are urgently needed. We therefore explored the feasibility of DNT hazard assessment based on new approach methods (NAMs). An in vitro battery (IVB) was assembled from ten individual NAMs that had been developed during the past years to probe effects of chemicals on various fundamental neurodevelopmental processes. All assays used human neural cells at different developmental stages. This allowed us to assess disturbances of: (i) proliferation of neural progenitor cells (NPC); (ii) migration of neural crest cells, radial glia cells, neurons and oligodendrocytes; (iii) differentiation of NPC into neurons and oligodendrocytes; and (iv) neurite outgrowth of peripheral and central neurons. In parallel, cytotoxicity measures were obtained. The feasibility of concentration-dependent screening and of a reliable biostatistical processing of the complex multi-dimensional data was explored with a set of 120 test compounds, containing subsets of pre-defined positive and negative DNT compounds. The battery provided alerts (hit or borderline) for 24 of 28 known toxicants (82% sensitivity), and for none of the 17 negative controls. Based on the results from this screen project, strategies were developed on how IVB data may be used in the context of risk assessment scenarios employing integrated approaches for testing and assessment (IATA).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jonathan Blum
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany.
| | - Stefan Masjosthusmann
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Kristina Bartmann
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Farina Bendt
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Xenia Dolde
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Arif Dönmez
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Nils Förster
- Bioinformatics Group, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany
| | - Anna-Katharina Holzer
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Ulrike Hübenthal
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Hagen Eike Keßel
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Sadiye Kilic
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany
| | - Jördis Klose
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Melanie Pahl
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Lynn-Christin Stürzl
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Iris Mangas
- European Food Safety Authority, PREV Unit, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | - Andrea Terron
- European Food Safety Authority, PREV Unit, 43126, Parma, Italy
| | | | - Martin Scholze
- Institute of Environment Health and Societies, Brunel University London, UK
| | - Axel Mosig
- Bioinformatics Group, Ruhr University Bochum, 44801, Bochum, Germany
| | - Marcel Leist
- In Vitro Toxicology and Biomedicine, Dept Inaugurated By the Doerenkamp-Zbinden Foundation, University of Konstanz, 78457, Konstanz, Germany.
| | - Ellen Fritsche
- IUF - Leibniz Research Institute for Environmental Medicine, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany; Medical Faculty, Heinrich-Heine-University, 40225, Düsseldorf, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Firman JW, Ebbrell DJ, Bauer FJ, Sapounidou M, Hodges G, Campos B, Roberts J, Gutsell S, Thomas PC, Bonnell M, Cronin MTD. Construction of an In Silico Structural Profiling Tool Facilitating Mechanistically Grounded Classification of Aquatic Toxicants. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2022; 56:17805-17814. [PMID: 36445296 PMCID: PMC9775196 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c03736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2022] [Revised: 11/14/2022] [Accepted: 11/16/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
The performance of chemical safety assessment within the domain of environmental toxicology is often impeded by a shortfall of appropriate experimental data describing potential hazards across the many compounds in regular industrial use. In silico schemes for assigning aquatic-relevant modes or mechanisms of toxic action to substances, based solely on consideration of chemical structure, have seen widespread employment─including those of Verhaar, Russom, and later Bauer (MechoA). Recently, development of a further system was reported by Sapounidou, which, in common with MechoA, seeks to ground its classifications in understanding and appreciation of molecular initiating events. Until now, this Sapounidou scheme has not seen implementation as a tool for practical screening use. Accordingly, the primary purpose of this study was to create such a resource─in the form of a computational workflow. This exercise was facilitated through the formulation of 183 structural alerts/rules describing molecular features associated with narcosis, chemical reactivity, and specific mechanisms of action. Output was subsequently compared relative to that of the three aforementioned alternative systems to identify strengths and shortcomings as regards coverage of chemical space.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- James W. Firman
- School
of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool
John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, U.K.
| | - David J. Ebbrell
- School
of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool
John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, U.K.
| | - Franklin J. Bauer
- KREATiS
SAS, 23 rue du Creuzat, ZAC de St-Hubert 38080, L′Isle d′Abeau, France
| | - Maria Sapounidou
- School
of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool
John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, U.K.
| | - Geoff Hodges
- Safety
and Environmental Assurance Centre, Unilever, Colworth Science Park, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1LQ, Bedfordshire, U.K.
| | - Bruno Campos
- Safety
and Environmental Assurance Centre, Unilever, Colworth Science Park, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1LQ, Bedfordshire, U.K.
| | - Jayne Roberts
- Safety
and Environmental Assurance Centre, Unilever, Colworth Science Park, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1LQ, Bedfordshire, U.K.
| | - Steve Gutsell
- Safety
and Environmental Assurance Centre, Unilever, Colworth Science Park, Sharnbrook, Bedford MK44 1LQ, Bedfordshire, U.K.
| | - Paul C. Thomas
- KREATiS
SAS, 23 rue du Creuzat, ZAC de St-Hubert 38080, L′Isle d′Abeau, France
| | - Mark Bonnell
- Science
and Risk Assessment Directorate, Environment
& Climate Change Canada, 351 St. Joseph Blvd, Gatineau, Quebec K1A 0H3, Canada
| | - Mark T. D. Cronin
- School
of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Liverpool
John Moores University, Byrom Street, Liverpool L3 3AF, U.K.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
van der Zalm AJ, Barroso J, Browne P, Casey W, Gordon J, Henry TR, Kleinstreuer NC, Lowit AB, Perron M, Clippinger AJ. A framework for establishing scientific confidence in new approach methodologies. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:2865-2879. [PMID: 35987941 PMCID: PMC9525335 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-022-03365-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Robust and efficient processes are needed to establish scientific confidence in new approach methodologies (NAMs) if they are to be considered for regulatory applications. NAMs need to be fit for purpose, reliable and, for the assessment of human health effects, provide information relevant to human biology. They must also be independently reviewed and transparently communicated. Ideally, NAM developers should communicate with stakeholders such as regulators and industry to identify the question(s), and specified purpose that the NAM is intended to address, and the context in which it will be used. Assessment of the biological relevance of the NAM should focus on its alignment with human biology, mechanistic understanding, and ability to provide information that leads to health protective decisions, rather than solely comparing NAM-based chemical testing results with those from traditional animal test methods. However, when NAM results are compared to historical animal test results, the variability observed within animal test method results should be used to inform performance benchmarks. Building on previous efforts, this paper proposes a framework comprising five essential elements to establish scientific confidence in NAMs for regulatory use: fitness for purpose, human biological relevance, technical characterization, data integrity and transparency, and independent review. Universal uptake of this framework would facilitate the timely development and use of NAMs by the international community. While this paper focuses on NAMs for assessing human health effects of pesticides and industrial chemicals, many of the suggested elements are expected to apply to other types of chemicals and to ecotoxicological effect assessments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - João Barroso
- European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC), Ispra, Italy
| | - Patience Browne
- Organisation for Economic Co-Operation and Development, Hazard Assessment and Pesticides Programmes, Environmental Directorate, Paris, France
| | - Warren Casey
- National Institutes of Health, Division of the National Toxicology Program, National Institutes of Environmental Health Sciences, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - John Gordon
- U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, Directorate for Health Sciences, Rockville, MD, USA
| | - Tala R Henry
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Nicole C Kleinstreuer
- National Toxicology Program Interagency Center for the Evaluation of Alternative Toxicological Methods, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Anna B Lowit
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Monique Perron
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Pesticide Programs, Washington, DC, USA
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Quality criteria for in vitro human pluripotent stem cell-derived models of tissue-based cells. Reprod Toxicol 2022; 112:36-50. [PMID: 35697279 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
The advent of the technology to isolate or generate human pluripotent stem cells provided the potential to develop a wide range of human models that could enhance understanding of mechanisms underlying human development and disease. These systems are now beginning to mature and provide the basis for the development of in vitro assays suitable to understand the biological processes involved in the multi-organ systems of the human body, and will improve strategies for diagnosis, prevention, therapies and precision medicine. Induced pluripotent stem cell lines are prone to phenotypic and genotypic changes and donor/clone dependent variability, which means that it is important to identify the most appropriate characterization markers and quality control measures when sourcing new cell lines and assessing differentiated cell and tissue culture preparations for experimental work. This paper considers those core quality control measures for human pluripotent stem cell lines and evaluates the state of play in the development of key functional markers for their differentiated cell derivatives to promote assurance of reproducibility of scientific data derived from pluripotent stem cell-based systems.
Collapse
|
13
|
A framework for chemical safety assessment incorporating new approach methodologies within REACH. Arch Toxicol 2022; 96:743-766. [PMID: 35103819 PMCID: PMC8850243 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-021-03215-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The long-term investment in new approach methodologies (NAMs) within the EU and other parts of the world is beginning to result in an emerging consensus of how to use information from in silico, in vitro and targeted in vivo sources to assess the safety of chemicals. However, this methodology is being adopted very slowly for regulatory purposes. Here, we have developed a framework incorporating in silico, in vitro and in vivo methods designed to meet the requirements of REACH in which both hazard and exposure can be assessed using a tiered approach. The outputs from each tier are classification categories, safe doses, and risk assessments, and progress through the tiers depends on the output from previous tiers. We have exemplified the use of the framework with three examples. The outputs were the same or more conservative than parallel assessments based on conventional studies. The framework allows a transparent and phased introduction of NAMs in chemical safety assessment and enables science-based safety decisions which provide the same level of public health protection using fewer animals, taking less time, and using less financial and expert resource. Furthermore, it would also allow new methods to be incorporated as they develop through continuous selective evolution rather than periodic revolution.
Collapse
|
14
|
Spînu N, Cronin MT, Madden JC, Worth AP. A matter of trust: Learning lessons about causality will make qAOPs credible. COMPUTATIONAL TOXICOLOGY 2022; 21:100205. [PMID: 35224319 PMCID: PMC8855346 DOI: 10.1016/j.comtox.2021.100205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2021] [Revised: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Quantitative AOPs are toxicodynamic models based on Adverse Outcome Pathways. Mathematical models, e.g. Bayesian networks, can inform the quantification of AOPs. Model credibility is enhanced by applying the principles of causality theory. A causal diagram is illustrated for an AOP for Parkinsonian motor deficits. Computational resources to help assess causality are listed.
Toxicology in the 21st Century has seen a shift from chemical risk assessment based on traditional animal tests, identifying apical endpoints and doses that are “safe”, to the prospect of Next Generation Risk Assessment based on non-animal methods. Increasingly, large and high throughput in vitro datasets are being generated and exploited to develop computational models. This is accompanied by an increased use of machine learning approaches in the model building process. A potential problem, however, is that such models, while robust and predictive, may still lack credibility from the perspective of the end-user. In this commentary, we argue that the science of causal inference and reasoning, as proposed by Judea Pearl, will facilitate the development, use and acceptance of quantitative AOP models. Our hope is that by importing established concepts of causality from outside the field of toxicology, we can be “constructively disruptive” to the current toxicological paradigm, using the “Causal Revolution” to bring about a “Toxicological Revolution” more rapidly.
Collapse
|
15
|
A hypothetical skin sensitisation next generation risk assessment for coumarin in cosmetic products. Regul Toxicol Pharmacol 2021; 127:105075. [PMID: 34728330 DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2021.105075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Revised: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Next generation Risk Assessment (NGRA) is an exposure-led, hypothesis-driven approach which integrates new approach methodologies (NAMs) to assure safety without generating animal data. This hypothetical skin allergy risk assessment of two consumer products - face cream containing 0.1% coumarin and deodorant containing 1% coumarin - demonstrates the application of our skin allergy NGRA framework which incorporates our Skin Allergy Risk Assessment (SARA) Model. SARA uses Bayesian statistics to provide a human relevant point of departure and risk metric for a given chemical exposure based upon input data that can include both NAMs and historical in vivo studies. Regardless of whether NAM or in vivo inputs were used, the model predicted that the face cream and deodorant exposures were low and high risk respectively. Using only NAM data resulted in a minor underestimation of risk relative to in vivo. Coumarin is a predicted pro-hapten and consequently, when applying this mechanistic understanding to the selection of NAMs the discordance in relative risk could be minimized. This case study demonstrates how integrating a computational model and generating bespoke NAM data in a weight of evidence framework can build confidence in safety decision making.
Collapse
|
16
|
Escher SE, Aguayo-Orozco A, Benfenati E, Bitsch A, Braunbeck T, Brotzmann K, Bois F, van der Burg B, Castel J, Exner T, Gadaleta D, Gardner I, Goldmann D, Hatley O, Golbamaki N, Graepel R, Jennings P, Limonciel A, Long A, Maclennan R, Mombelli E, Norinder U, Jain S, Capinha LS, Taboureau OT, Tolosa L, Vrijenhoek NG, van Vugt-Lussenburg BMA, Walker P, van de Water B, Wehr M, White A, Zdrazil B, Fisher C. A read-across case study on chronic toxicity of branched carboxylic acids (1): Integration of mechanistic evidence from new approach methodologies (NAMs) to explore a common mode of action. Toxicol In Vitro 2021; 79:105269. [PMID: 34757180 DOI: 10.1016/j.tiv.2021.105269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2021] [Revised: 10/17/2021] [Accepted: 10/27/2021] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
This read-across case study characterises thirteen, structurally similar carboxylic acids demonstrating the application of in vitro and in silico human-based new approach methods, to determine biological similarity. Based on data from in vivo animal studies, the read-across hypothesis is that all analogues are steatotic and so should be considered hazardous. Transcriptomic analysis to determine differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in hepatocytes served as first tier testing to confirm a common mode-of-action and identify differences in the potency of the analogues. An adverse outcome pathway (AOP) network for hepatic steatosis, informed the design of an in vitro testing battery, targeting AOP relevant MIEs and KEs, and Dempster-Shafer decision theory was used to systematically quantify uncertainty and to define the minimal testing scope. The case study shows that the read-across hypothesis is the critical core to designing a robust, NAM-based testing strategy. By summarising the current mechanistic understanding, an AOP enables the selection of NAMs covering MIEs, early KEs, and late KEs. Experimental coverage of the AOP in this way is vital since MIEs and early KEs alone are not confirmatory of progression to the AO. This strategy exemplifies the workflow previously published by the EUTOXRISK project driving a paradigm shift towards NAM-based NGRA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sylvia E Escher
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Chemical Safety and Toxicology, Germany.
| | | | - Emilio Benfenati
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Annette Bitsch
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Chemical Safety and Toxicology, Germany
| | - Thomas Braunbeck
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Group, Center for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Katharina Brotzmann
- Aquatic Ecology and Toxicology Group, Center for Organismal Studies, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Frederic Bois
- Certara UK Ltd, Simcyp Division, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | | | - Jose Castel
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Domenico Gadaleta
- Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milano, Italy
| | - Iain Gardner
- Certara UK Ltd, Simcyp Division, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | - Daria Goldmann
- University of Vienna, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vienna, Austria
| | - Oliver Hatley
- Certara UK Ltd, Simcyp Division, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | | | - Rabea Graepel
- Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Paul Jennings
- Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Sankalp Jain
- University of Vienna, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vienna, Austria
| | | | | | - Laia Tolosa
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Nanette G Vrijenhoek
- Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | | | | | - Bob van de Water
- Leiden Academic Centre for Drug Research (LACDR), Leiden University, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Matthias Wehr
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine, Chemical Safety and Toxicology, Germany
| | - Andrew White
- Unilever Safety and Environmental Assurance Centre, Sharnbrook, Bedfordshire, United Kingdom
| | - Barbara Zdrazil
- University of Vienna, Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Vienna, Austria
| | - Ciarán Fisher
- Certara UK Ltd, Simcyp Division, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Schneider MR, Oelgeschlaeger M, Burgdorf T, van Meer P, Theunissen P, Kienhuis AS, Piersma AH, Vandebriel RJ. Applicability of organ-on-chip systems in toxicology and pharmacology. Crit Rev Toxicol 2021; 51:540-554. [PMID: 34463591 DOI: 10.1080/10408444.2021.1953439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Organ-on-chip (OoC) systems are microfabricated cell culture devices designed to model functional units of human organs by harboring an in vitro generated organ surrogate. In the present study, we reviewed issues and opportunities related to the application of OoC in the safety and efficacy assessment of chemicals and pharmaceuticals, as well as the steps needed to achieve this goal. The relative complexity of OoC over simple in vitro assays provides advantages and disadvantages in the context of compound testing. The broader biological domain of OoC potentially enhances their predictive value, whereas their complexity present issues with throughput, standardization and transferability. Using OoCs for regulatory purposes requires detailed and standardized protocols, providing reproducible results in an interlaboratory setting. The extent to which interlaboratory standardization of OoC is feasible and necessary for regulatory application is a matter of debate. The focus of applying OoCs in safety assessment is currently directed to characterization (the biology represented in the test) and qualification (the performance of the test). To this aim, OoCs are evaluated on a limited scale, especially in the pharmaceutical industry, with restricted sets of reference substances. Given the low throughput of OoC, it is questionable whether formal validation, in which many reference substances are extensively tested in different laboratories, is feasible for OoCs. Rather, initiatives such as open technology platforms, and collaboration between OoC developers and risk assessors may prove an expedient strategy to build confidence in OoCs for application in safety and efficacy assessment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marlon R Schneider
- German Centre for the Protection of Laboratory Animals (Bf3R), German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Michael Oelgeschlaeger
- German Centre for the Protection of Laboratory Animals (Bf3R), German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Tanja Burgdorf
- German Centre for the Protection of Laboratory Animals (Bf3R), German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR), Berlin, Germany
| | - Peter van Meer
- Section on Pharmacology, Toxicology and Kinetics, Medicines Evaluation Board, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Department of Pharmaceutics, Utrecht Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Peter Theunissen
- Section on Pharmacology, Toxicology and Kinetics, Medicines Evaluation Board, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Anne S Kienhuis
- Laboratory for Health Protection, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Aldert H Piersma
- Laboratory for Health Protection, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| | - Rob J Vandebriel
- Laboratory for Health Protection, National Institute of Public Health and the Environment, Bilthoven, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|