From Pipeline to Plant Protection Products: Using New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) in Agrochemical Safety Assessment

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Toxicology
• Environmental Science

Background:

• Global food security is a major challenge, projected to impact 9.7 billion people by 2050.
• Agrochemicals are vital for crop yields and food access, but their development is lengthy, costly, and involves significant animal testing.
• The high costs and ethical concerns drive the need for alternative development strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review New Approach Methodologies (NAMs) applicable to early-stage agrochemical screening.
• To highlight emerging in vitro assays addressing key regulatory concerns.
• To promote efficient and ethical agrochemical development.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing and adaptable NAMs for agrochemical screening.
• Focus on in vitro assays for early-stage assessment.
• Integration of NAMs into directed, agile, and iterative development programs.

Main Results:

• NAMs offer a viable alternative to traditional animal-based testing in early development.
• Emerging in vitro screens can address critical regulatory endpoints.
• Early screening with NAMs prioritizes candidates with lower human and environmental health risks.

Conclusions:

• Implementing NAMs in early-stage agrochemical screening is crucial for efficient and responsible development.
• NAMs facilitate the prioritization of safer agrochemical candidates, reducing reliance on animal testing.
• This approach supports sustainable agriculture and enhanced food security.