Evaluating the genotoxic potential of physical and chemical agents
We determine the genotoxic potential (DNA dammage, gene mutations and chromosome changes) of chemical and physical agents (physical components/substances/media that could have a potential genotoxic effect) using non-animal-testing methods. The focus is primarily on food contaminants, medicinal plants and non-ionising radiation.
Our research methods comprise:
- the collection and critical evaluation of the data available in the scientific literature,
- using computer models and
- conducting tests with cell cultures, both pre-existing and tests developed in-house.
In addition, we are participating in the development of Integrated Approaches to Testing and Assessment (IATA) for various endpoints (genotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, etc.) that will eventually allow us to (partially) replace the use of animals for evaluating these endpoints. We are also involved in the coordination of a number of initiatives to promote the use of non-animal methods, not only within toxicology but in research in general
From our results, our Unit informs authorities about the potential danger and the potential health risks from chemical and physical agents. In addition, we formulate recommendations on new tools and strategies for the risk-assessment process.
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Collecting genotoxicity data using a range of non-animal-testing methods
Genotoxicity is an important toxicological end point and is associated with severe hazardous health effects, including cancer. Consequently, genotoxicity data are required for almost all physical and chemical agents. Within our unit, we collect these data using non-animal-testing methods such as
- the critical evaluation of literature data,
- the use of computer models and
- conducting tests that make use of cell cultures (e.g. Ames test, Vitotox test, the in vitro micronucleus and the comet assay).
We follow new developments in the field of genotoxicity closely and, where relevant, we develop or apply new methods in our laboratory. As a result, we have collaborated, among other things, on the development of a tool with which changes in the expression of a selection of genes are studied to evaluate genotoxicity (‘GENOMARK’).
Researching genotoxicity in food, medicinal plants and non-ionising radiation
Although the genotoxicity of any chemical substance or mixture can be researched in theory, our focus is mainly on contaminants that are present in food (e.g. components that end up in food from packaging materials, mycotoxins, etc.) medicinal plants and non-ionising radiation. By collecting data about genotoxicity, we contribute to the protection of human health. In addition, the data collected can also be used within large groups of components to precisely identify those components that are the least toxic and/or cause the greatest concern and for which additional (in vivo) tests must therefore be conducted. Furthermore, the anti-genotoxicity can be evaluated, which is primarily of importance for identifying potential therapeutic substances in medicinal plant extracts.
Development of ‘Integrated Approaches to Testing and Assessment (IATA)’
We are also collaborating on the development of ‘Integrated Approaches to Testing and Assessment (IATA)’ for various endpoints such as genotoxicity, cardiotoxicity, etc. These integrated approaches combine existing knowledge with data from New Approach Methodlogies and, if necessary, in vivo testing. In the future, this application will be able to (partially) replace the use of laboratory animals for evaluating these endpoints.
Furthermore, our unit is also conducting research on the integration of computer models for predicting the toxicity of and/or exposure to chemical components into platforms that can support risk assessment.
By contributing to the development and implementation of new tools and strategies, our activities remain up-to-date and of high quality and we are able to formulate recommendations regarding the potential role of such tools in the risk assessment process.
Encouraging non-animal-testing methods
In addition, we are also involved in a range of projects and activities that encourage the use of non-animal-testing methods in general. We are, for example, collaborating on the development of a database that gives an overview of the non-animal-testing methods available in Flanders and Brussels. Our unit also serves as the Belgian focal point for the OESO Test Methods Program and the European Network for the ’ Preliminary Assessment of Regulatory Relevance of methods and approaches’.
Our research is financed by Sciensano, Europe, the Belgian State and regional organisations. We share our findings through reports, scientific publications and presentations at national and international congresses.