Toxicologists lead research efforts aimed at understanding the potential health and environmental effects of biological agents, chemicals, and compounds. The insights gained form the foundation for determining how drugs, chemicals, and consumer products can be used safely. To assess safety, scientists use a range of methods and prioritize those most predictive of human, animal, and environmental health. These methods include the use of both traditional animal models and new approach methodologies, such as in silico, in vitro, and alternative animal models.
While supporting the principles of reducing, refining, and replacing the use of animals in science, the Society of Toxicology (SOT) urges government agencies to maintain flexibility in their policies and language concerning methods used for safety and risk assessments. Studies that deliver consistent, reliable, and accurate data on the public health and environmental impacts of biological agents, chemicals, and compounds should be recognized, funded, and incorporated into decision-making—regardless of the model or technology used.
The toxicology community remains committed to advancing the best available methods that are not only scientifically sound and reproducible but also humane. SOT encourages government agencies to contribute to the validation of new and emerging methods in a thorough and unbiased manner and keep protection of public and environmental health at the forefront of decision-making.
This statement is being shared under the SOT President’s name as part of their official duties and should not be interpreted as their personal or professional opinions.