New QSAR assessment framework supports alternatives to animal testing

The framework helps regulators to assess quantitative-structure activity relationships (QSAR) studies, used as an animal-free method to gain data on chemicals. 

Helsinki, 10 October 2023 – The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) has published the framework for assessing QSARs, developed by an expert group led by ECHA and the Italian National Institute of Health, ISS. It guides regulators in evaluating computational results and enhances confidence in accepting alternative methods for chemical hazard assessment. This helps build confidence in the use of QSARs and reducing reliance on animal testing. 

The framework includes guidance and a checklist for the assessment of models, predictions and results based on multiple predictions. It brings clarity, consistency, and transparency to the assessment of QSAR results. 

REACH registrants can apply the framework to increase confidence that their QSAR studies fulfil the regulatory requirements. They do not need to update their existing QSAR studies, as ECHA’s current practice for assessing QSARs under REACH is reflected in the framework. ECHA keeps using its current assessment methodology. 

QSAR model developers are encouraged to apply the framework to generate models that are fit for regulatory applications.

ECHA, ISS, and OECD will present the QSAR assessment framework in two webinars on 30 October and 9 November. ECHA is planning a webinar for REACH registrants in early 2024.

Background

QSAR models are computational models that can be used to predict the physicochemical, biological and environmental fate properties of compounds, based on their chemical structure. REACH foresees the use of QSARs as an adaptation to standard information requirements, thereby avoiding unnecessary testing on animals.
In the context of this news, the acronym QSAR covers both quantitative and qualitative structure activity relationships models.

Press contact: Tiiu Bräutigam, press@echa.europa.eu, +358 40 506 9006