The guinea pig has been the animal of choice for predictive sensitisation tests for several decades.
Recently, mouse models for assessing skin sensitisation have been developed that offer the advantages of an endpoint which is measured objectively, of shorter duration and with minimal animal treatment. The local lymph node assay (LLNA) has undergone validation and has been shown to reliably detect moderate to strong sensitisers. The LLNA is now accepted by Regulatory Authorities in the assessment of skin sensitisation potential. The method provides an alternative to the skin sensitisation test in guinea pigs, and is outlined in:
- OECD Guideline [406]: "OECD Guideline for the testing of Chemicals-Skin Sensitisation."
The purpose of the LLNA is to provide information regarding the skin sensitizing potential of a test article. This information is considered for dermally applied pharmaceuticals or when developing Occupational Health and Safety Guidelines for the manufacture of an article.