Non-animal tobacco-testing alternatives to be aired

A PETA International Science Consortium advisor, Joseph Manuppello, will present the ‘Animal Protection Perspective’ at a workshop sponsored by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) intended to identify in vitro models and assays for tobacco toxicity testing.

The workshop, Assessment of In Vitro COPD [Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease] Models for Tobacco Regulatory Science, was designed by the non-profit laboratory, the Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS), to bring together experts and participants specifically to address the relevant research goals of the FDA’s Center for Tobacco Products (CTP).

According to IIVS, the research priorities of the CTP include the identification of in vitro models and assays for assessing tobacco constituent or compound hazards and for comparing the respiratory toxicity of different tobacco products.

Areas to be explored during the workshop include:

* Inflammation and Oxidative Stress;

* Ciliary Dysfunction and Ion Transport;

* Goblet Cell Hyperplasia and Mucus Production; and

* Parenchymal/Bronchial Tissue Destruction and Remodeling.

The introductory session will feature speakers from the CTP, R. J. Reynolds, and the PETA International Science Consortium presenting regulatory, industry, and animal protection perspectives.

Manuppello will discuss opportunities for minimizing animal use within the current regulatory environment for tobacco products. “Tobacco products can and must be tested using non-animal testing methods as the standard, and the FDA must exercise its authority to avoid harming animals,” said Manuppello.

The workshop in Bethesda, Maryland, will be held on December 8-10 at the North Bethesda Marriott and Conference Center.

There is more information about non-animal testing methods at the PETA International Science Consortium, Ltd. website.