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Advancing the science of a read-across framework for evaluation of data-poor chemicals incorporating systematic and new approach methods

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The assessment of human health hazards posed by chemicals traditionally relies on toxicity studies in experimental animals. However, most chemicals currently in commerce do not meet the minimum data requirements for hazard identification and dose-response analysis in human health risk assessment. Previously, we introduced a read-across framework designed to address data gaps for screening-level assessment of chemicals with insufficient in vivo toxicity information (Wang et al., 2012). It relies on inference by analogy from suitably tested source analogues to a target chemical, based on structural, toxicokinetic, and toxicodynamic similarity. This approach has been used for dose-response assessment of data-poor chemicals relevant to the U.S. EPA's Superfund program. We present herein, case studies of the application of this framework, highlighting specific examples of the use of biological similarity for chemical grouping and quantitative read-across. Based on practical knowledge and technological advances in the fields of read-across and predictive toxicology, we propose a revised framework. It includes important considerations for problem formulation, systematic review, target chemical analysis, analogue identification, analogue evaluation, and incorporation of new approach methods. This work emphasizes the integration of systematic methods and alternative toxicity testing data and tools in chemical risk assessment to inform regulatory decision-making.

Impact/Purpose

Expanding on a previous read-across methodology published by CPHEA sicentists to address data gaps for chemicals of interest to the Superfund program (Wang et al., 2012), incorporating past experiences and advances in the fields of read-across and NAMs.

Citation

Lizarraga, L., G. Suter, J. Lambert, G. Patlewicz, Qiyu Zhao, J. Dean, AND J. Kaiser. Advancing the science of a read-across framework for evaluation of data-poor chemicals incorporating systematic and new approach methods. Elsevier Science Ltd, New York, NY, 137:105293, (2023). [DOI: 10.1016/j.yrtph.2022.105293]

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  • https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0273230022001805?via%3Dihub
DOI: Advancing the science of a read-across framework for evaluation of data-poor chemicals incorporating systematic and new approach methods
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Last updated on January 28, 2025
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