EURL ECVAM

The European Union Reference Laboratory for alternatives to animal testing (EURL ECVAM)

EURL  ECVAM promotes and facilitates the use of non-animal methods in testing and research in chemical safety assessment  and is an integral part of the Joint Research Centre (JRC), the science and knowledge service of the European Commission.

EURL ECVAMs activities cover the entire life cycle of alternative methods, i.e. from development over validation to regulatory acceptance, international recognition and proper scientific use.

EURL ECVAM’s primary roles include:

• Promoting Non-Animal Methods: EURL ECVAM promotes and facilitates the use of non-animal methods in testing and research. This includes developing, validating, and standardizing in vitro (cell-based) and in chemico (chemical-based) methods.
• Coordination and Collaboration: The laboratory coordinates an international network of in vitro facilities (EU-NETVAL) that supports the validation and implementation of in vitro methods intended for regulatory use.
• Research and Development: EURL ECVAM engages in research and development activities to advance the Three Rs (Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement of animal experiments). This includes collaborating with EU and international research initiatives.
• Knowledge Sharing: The laboratory disseminates information and shares knowledge on the Three Rs, promoting non-animal approaches in science through education and training activities targeting secondary schools, universities, and professional development.

EURL ECVAM contributes to the validation of NAMs through several key activities:

• Validation Studies: EURL ECVAM conducts and coordinates validation studies to assess the reliability and relevance of alternative methods. This includes the development and standardization of in vitro methods that can replace animal testing.
• Experimental Facilities: The laboratory operates state-of-the-art experimental facilities equipped for high-throughput screening, high-content imaging, organ-on-chip technologies, and multi-electrode arrays. These facilities are used to generate data and validate new methods.
• International Collaboration: Their work is closely linked to EU regulations, such as REACH and EURL ECVAM collaborates with international organizations, such as the OECD, to develop and harmonize test methods.  The OECD develops international guidelines for chemical safety, known as the OECD Test Guidelines, which are used worldwide. EURL ECVAM contributes to these guidelines by validating alternative methods and providing scientific input.

In addition, EURL ECVAM is an active participant in the International Cooperation on Alternative Test Methods (ICATM), a partnership that promotes the acceptance of alternative methods worldwide. This cooperation helps to ensure that new methods are accepted and used not only in Europe but also internationally.

• Education and Training: The laboratory provides education and training on non-animal methods, helping to build capacity and expertise in the use of NAMs. This includes organizing summer schools and workshops.
• Knowledge Dissemination: EURL ECVAM actively disseminates information on validated NAMs through publications, reports, and online platforms. This helps to promote the adoption and regulatory acceptance of these methods.

For additional support or helpdesk information, you can reach out to EURL ECVAM directly via email AT JRC-F3-ENQUIRIES@ec.europa.eu. They offer resources and support for questions about the validation and implementation of alternative methods.