Fish invitrome: non-animal ecotoxicity testing
2025
Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Dübendorf, Switzerland
The fish invitrome is a modular framework designed to predict chemical toxicity in fish without animal testing, addressing the need for in vitro methods in environmental risk assessment. Its core component is the validated RTgill-W1 cell line assay for predicting acute toxicity (OECD TG 249). The framework also includes modules for bioaccumulation/biotransformation and growth inhibition, with plans to expand to other toxicity areas. As part of the New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), the fish invitrome aims to integrate developments from global research groups. The project employs a transdisciplinary approach, combining natural and social sciences with stakeholder engagement. A stepwise socio-technical strategy is being used to gradually introduce the framework across various ecotoxicological contexts, focusing on building trust and familiarity among stakeholders rather than immediate regulatory acceptance. This approach aims to overcome barriers and facilitate a smooth transition to non-animal testing methods.
Development of the fish invitrome for animal-free environmental risk assessment of chemicals
Kristin Schirmer
Added on: 02-03-2025
[1] https://academic.oup.com/etc/advance-article/doi/10.1093/etojnl/vgaf028/7989442
