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The endocrine system, or hormone system, is found in all humans, mammals and many other types of living organisms. It regulates biological processes in the body via chemical substances from conception through adulthood, including the development of the brain and nervous system, the growth and function of the reproductive system and the function of the metabolism. Due to concern that certain natural and synthetic substances may interfere with the body's endocrine system and produce adverse effects in humans and wildlife, validated test strategies and methods are needed to identify chemicals and assess whether they will have potential effects or not. This will also contribute to the next steps in REACH - the EU's new chemicals legislation - which will subject substances of very high concern to further investigation and, if needed, authorisation.
10 years of engagement
As part of its commitment to better understanding the endocrine issue, the Long-range Research Initiative (LRI) funded several research studies to refine and validate four assays included in the OECD's Endocrine Disrupter Testing and Assessment Programme. LRI's goal was to develop robust, validated and globally-harmonised test methods to quantify and manage the risks arising from the disruption of the endocrine system. LRI is also about joining forces and sharing expertise. In this instance, LRI worked with the OECD and national governments, sharing industry's knowledge and expertise. In all major scientific fora, LRI advocates the need for a globally-harmonised definition and globally-harmonised and validated in vitro and in vivo test methods.
Some of the assays LRI contributed to were adopted in 2007 and 2008 and a further five were adopted as official OECD test guidelines in September 2009. This means that a global framework for testing and assessment approaches for endocrine active chemicals is now filled with an increasing number of suitable tools and can be developed further to ensure consumer safety. Furthermore, less cruel and invasive methods brought about by LRI meant a reduction in animal testing - another commitment of the chemical industry.
The OECD Test Guidelines are a collection of the most relevant internationally-agreed test methods used by government, industry and independent laboratories to determine the safety of chemicals and chemical preparations.
These major developments bring back science as a major player in the debate on endocrine disruption. The adoption of globally-accepted screening methods means the international research community, assisted by LRI, can work together in an efficient and harmonised way, helping move the debate forward based on facts and science.
Detailed information on current Cefic LRI research on endocrine disrupters is available here.
Check out the OECD website for more information on its Special Activity on Endocrine Disrupter Testing and Assessment.