Phototoxicity

The phototoxic potential of chemicals, cosmetics, dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals are a major and growing concern with the diminishing protective ozone layer and increasing cases of sundamaged skin.

3T3 Neutral Red Uptake Phototoxicity Assay

This test is designed to evaluate the toxic response after exposure to light of a substance applied to skin or introduced by systemic administration. The cytotoxicity and phototoxicity of the test article to 3T3 cells (in the presence or absence of UVA light) is assessed by Neutral Red Uptake. The assay is based on the OECD test guidelines and is designed to detect the phototoxicity induced by the combined action of a test article and light. The test identifies aqueous soluble compounds (for formulations) that have the potential to exhibit in vivo phototoxicity after systemic application.