The proposed ‘3T3 NRU phototoxicity test method’ has been deemed as the country’s first in vitro alternative test in the cosmetic field.
The new method is said to use Balb/c 3T3 fibroblast mouse cell line, neutral red and other testing materials to assess acute phototoxic effects of cosmetic ingredients on the skin.
The standard is said to have combined both international academic practice and realistic conditions of the domestic labs.
During its drafting, the SFDA has carried out numerous interlab comparisons and consulted a large number of scientific institutes and cosmetic enterprises.
The 3T3 NRU phototoxicity test is aligned with “OECD guidelines for the testing of chemicals: 3T3 NRU phototoxicity test (No 432, 2004)” and requirements under “Directive 67/548/ EEC on the Classification, Packaging and Labelling of Dangerous Substances” and will be open for public consultation until the end of this month.
IIVS also in support of animal testing alternatives
Last month the Institute for In Vitro Sciences also said it will expand its international outreach program having recognised the need to drive regulatory change in those countries that still require animal testing for cosmetic and personal care products.
"Generous support from industry and animal protection organisations now enables us to expand our international programs so we can have an impact in countries such as China, Brazil and Russia," said Dr Rodger Curren, president of IIVS.