IIVS Recipient of Device That Mimics Human Exposure to Aerosols

GAITHERSBURG, Md., July 10, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The Institute for In Vitro Sciences (IIVS), a leader in non-animal test methods, is the recipient of a VITROCELL® inhalation exposure system thanks to a generous donation by the PETA International Science Consortium. The device, which is designed to replace animals in inhalation testing, can be used to expose human lung cells to airborne test materials in an environment that mimics the human lung. IIVS will use the VITROCELL® system for testing combustible tobacco products, as well as next generation heat-not-burn and electronic cigarettes using a VITROCELL® Smoking Machine.

"We are grateful to the PETA Science Consortium for this specialized equipment, which will allow us to assist industry and regulatory scientists to gather crucial data without using animals," said Erin Hill, president of the Institute for In Vitro Sciences.

The VITROCELL® inhalation exposure system is designed to expose a variety of human-relevant respiratory cell cultures and tissue models to airborne substances such as gases, vapors, complex mixtures, and nanoparticles at the air-tissue interface just as the exposures occur in humans. This provides a significant improvement in exposure modeling over systems that rely upon the dilution of test chemicals into cell culture media.

"We are pleased to provide this essential equipment to IIVS for its human-relevant research that will protect humans and spare animals," said Amy Clippinger, associate director of the PETA International Science Consortium.

Support of IIVS' new respiratory program is the latest in a long history of contributions from PETA and the PETA Science Consortium since the inception of IIVS in 1997. The two organizations have worked collaboratively on key areas in the field of alternatives to animal testing, including validation of test methods and training to regulatory agencies in the U.S., Europe and China. In 2010, IIVS was the first recipient of PETA's Mark Twain Ethical Science Award.

About IIVS

IIVS is a non-profit organization wholly dedicated to the promotion of rapid and innovative non-animal test methods. Founded in 1997, IIVS is recognized as a leading provider of in vitro testing in support of toxicological safety evaluations. Rigorous scientific programs coupled with educational and outreach initiatives have established IIVS as a global leader in the advancement of alternatives to animal testing.

About PETA International Science Consortium

The PETA International Science Consortium Ltd. works to accelerate the development, validation, and global implementation of animal-free science. It was established in 2012 to coordinate the scientific and regulatory expertise of its members--PETA U.K., PETA U.S., PETA France, PETA Germany, PETA India, PETA Netherlands, PETA Asia, and PETA Australia. The Science Consortium and its members have donated more than $3.2 million to help companies reduce and replace animal use.

About VITROCELL® Systems

VITROCELL® Systems has extensive expertise in designing, producing, and installing customized in vitro exposure systems to fit specific research needs. It offers a variety of modules that can be used to test substances in cell-based systems.

Media Contact:         

Laura Henning
240-454-8459
[email protected]

SOURCE IIVS