Toxicology testing of chemical substances

We help protect man and the environment

We are commited to protecting human health with regard to environmental pollutants and to helping assess and manage potential risks – by using our expert knowledge in toxicology.

We offer our clients a broad range of toxicological tests enabling assessment of potential risks to human health. Substances we investigate include chemicals, particles, complex mixtures, and nanomaterials.

The focus is on inhalation toxicology and on characterizing inhalable substances. Our expertise ranges from the development and implementation of testing strategies to accompanying and providing consultancy to companies in registering their products.

A sound basis for our work is provided by the institute’s expertise in inhalation, fiber and particle toxicology, and in aerosol research and chemical analysis.

Our services and expertise

  • Regulatory assessment by means of standard tests in compliance with international guidelines (OECD, EU, EPA, or FDA)
  • Characterization of molecular mechanisms of action
  • Toxicological databases (RITA, goRENI, DevTox)
  • P.R.I.T.® exposure system for in-vitro exposure of cells and tissues to airborne, soluble, and particulate test substances at air/liquid interfaces

Key topics

 

Nanomaterials, particles and fibers

Chemicals, pesticides and biocides

Genetic toxicology

Environmental and occupational safety

Pathology

Mechanistic and in-vitro toxicology

Inhalation toxicology

The P.R.I.T.® ExpoCube® system

The P.R.I.T.® ExpoCube® system
© Fraunhofer ITEM, Ralf Mohr

Testing of volatile chemicals for inhalation toxicity

Fraunhofer ITEM uses the P.R.I.T.® ExpoCube® system to characterize the biological effects of volatile chemicals in vitro by means of human lung cells. This method enables also testing of substances which, due to certain physicochemical properties such as high vapor pressure or low solubility in water, normally are not suitable for testing in cell-based in-vitro test systems.

More information

Contact

Annette Bitsch

Contact Press / Media

Dr. Annette Bitsch

Division Director Chemical Safety and Toxicology

Phone +49 511 5350-302