![Testing Information Testing Information](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20090113172241im_/http://ntp.niehs.nih.gov/images/template/subMastHead_testingInformation.gif)
The NTP is an interagency program whose mission is to evaluate agents of public health concern by developing and applying the tools of modern toxicology and molecular biology. This involves conducting toxicological evaluations of substances of public health concern, developing and validating improved (sensitive, specific, rapid) testing methods, developing approaches and generating data to strengthen the science base for risk assessment, and communicating with all stakeholders. The NTP plays a critical role in providing needed scientific data, interpretations, and guidance concerning the appropriate uses of data to regulatory agencies and other groups involved with health-related research. Through its interactive relationship with regulatory agencies, the NTP plays an indirect, but important role in shaping public health policy.