New Approach Methods to Evaluate Health Risks of Air Pollutants: Critical Design Considerations for In Vitro Exposure Testing

Jose Zavala, Anastasia N. Freedman, John T. Szilagyi, Ilona Jaspers, John F. Wambaugh, Mark Higuchi and Julia E. Rager
Additional contact information
Jose Zavala: MedTec Biolab, Inc., Hillsborough, NC 27278, USA
Anastasia N. Freedman: Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
John T. Szilagyi: Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
Ilona Jaspers: Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA
John F. Wambaugh: Center for Computational Toxicology and Exposure, Office of Research and Development, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Durham, NC 27709, USA
Mark Higuchi: Center for Public Health and Environmental Assessment, Office of Research and Development, United States Environmental Protection Agency, Durham, NC 27709, USA
Julia E. Rager: Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC 27599, USA

IJERPH, 2020, vol. 17, issue 6, 1-28

Abstract: Air pollution consists of highly variable and complex mixtures recognized as major contributors to morbidity and mortality worldwide. The vast number of chemicals, coupled with limitations surrounding epidemiological and animal studies, has necessitated the development of new approach methods (NAMs) to evaluate air pollution toxicity. These alternative approaches include in vitro (cell-based) models, wherein toxicity of test atmospheres can be evaluated with increased efficiency compared to in vivo studies. In vitro exposure systems have recently been developed with the goal of evaluating air pollutant-induced toxicity; though the specific design parameters implemented in these NAMs-based studies remain in flux. This review aims to outline important design parameters to consider when using in vitro methods to evaluate air pollutant toxicity, with the goal of providing increased accuracy, reproducibility, and effectiveness when incorporating in vitro data into human health evaluations. This review is unique in that experimental considerations and lessons learned are provided, as gathered from first-hand experience developing and testing in vitro models coupled to exposure systems. Reviewed design aspects include cell models, cell exposure conditions, exposure chambers, and toxicity endpoints. Strategies are also discussed to incorporate in vitro findings into the context of in vivo toxicity and overall risk assessment.

Keywords: air pollution; in vitro; inhalation; mixtures; new approach methods; toxicology; risk assessment (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: I I1 I3 Q Q5 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2020
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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