In vitro methods for estimating eye irritancy of cleaning products phase i: preliminary assessment

Abstract

A preliminary assessment of 14 in vitro test systems for estimating eye irritation has been completed. The eye irritation potentials of eight cleaning products and ingredients as predicted by these in vitro methods were compared to in vivo test results. This preliminary assessment was the first step in a continuing program to identify and validate in vitro alternatives for the prediction of eye irritancy. Six types of tests are currently undergoing further investigation: a chorioallantoic membrane assay, a corneal epithelial plasminogen activator assay, the SIRC cytotoxicity assay, a uridine uptake assay, a chromium release assay, and a Tetrahymena motility assay. A number of validation issues are discussed. These include the need for government-industry consensus on the essential details of the validation process, the need for Draize data during the transition from in vivo to in vitro tests, and the desirability of providing for validation of in vitro tests by classes of chemicals.