The NTP Interagency Center for the Evaluation of Alternative Toxicological
Methods (NICEATM) was established in 1998 to:
- Administer ICCVAM and its scientific advisory committee
- Provide technical/scientific support and coordination for ICCVAM and ICCVAM working groups,
peer review panels, expert panels, workshops, validation efforts, and the scientific advisory
committee
- Organize committee-related activities, such as peer reviews and workshops for test methods of
interest to U.S. Federal agencies
- Provide a mechanism for communication between agencies as well as between agencies
and test method developers
NICEATM, in providing support for ICCVAM, also: a) evaluates new test method submissions and nominations
for their adherence to ICCVAM guidelines, b) assesses the completeness of test method dossiers for ICCVAM
evaluation, c) determines the suitability of test methods for ICCVAM evaluation of their validation status,
and d) assembles information about current best practices for the humane care and use of animals in
toxicological research and testing.
As resources allow, NICEATM also conducts validation studies to evaluate potential new alternative methods
that may reduce, replace, or refine animal use for toxicity testing and provide improved predictability of
human or animal toxicity or of adverse ecological effects.
NICEATM and ICCVAM seek to promote the
validation and regulatory acceptance of toxicological test methods that
will enhance their member agencies' ability to assess risks and make decisions,
and that will refine, reduce, and/or replace animal use. The
ultimate goal is the validation and regulatory acceptance of test
methods that are more predictive of adverse human and ecological effects
than currently available methods, supporting
improved protection of human health and the environment.
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View the NICEATM-ICCVAM brochure (January 2008)
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