17 April 2024
NanoTox, 23-25 Sept 2024, Venice, Italy
20 February 2024
ANTHOS 2024 (4-7 March 2024, Vienna, AT)
9 November 2023
Submit abstract for SETAC 2024
20 August 2023
22 August 2023
Nanotechnology and the production of nanomaterials have been expanding rapidly in recent years. Since many types of engineered nanoparticles are suspected to be toxic to living organisms and to have a negative impact on the environment, the process of designing new nanoparticles and their applications must be accompanied by a thorough risk analysis. (Quantitative) Structure-Activity Relationship ([Q]SAR) modelling creates promising options among the available methods for the risk assessment. These in silico models can be used to predict a variety of properties, including the toxicity of newly designed nanoparticles. However, (Q)SAR models must be appropriately validated to ensure the clarity, consistency and reliability of predictions. This paper is a joint initiative from recently completed European research projects focused on developing (Q)SAR methodology for nanomaterials. The aim was to interpret and expand the guidance for the well-known “OECD Principles for the Validation, for Regulatory Purposes, of (Q)SAR Models”, with reference to nano-(Q)SAR, and present our opinions on the criteria to be fulfilled for models developed for nanoparticles.
Conclusions
(Quantitative) Structure-Activity Relationship ([Q]SAR) modelling is one possibility for estimating hazard or exposure related characteristics, either in the context of a risk assessment or as part of a “safe-by-design” approach. It might be used for predicting a variety of properties, including toxicity of newly designed nanoparticles. However, every nano-(Q)SAR must be appropriately validated, which is crucial for ensuring its predictive accuracy.