We are delighted to announce our participation in the Animal-Free Safety Assessment for Cosmetics (AFSA) Masterclass. Launched in March 2023, this free, online training programme is designed to build capacity and confidence in animal-free safety assessment of cosmetics and ingredients.
Over the last three years, our scientists have helped to build a one-of-a-kind educational course to support the development of new and safer drug products. Our contribution to this initiative focuses on the application of in silico tools and Read-Across, helping to provide a greater understanding of alternative ‘new approach methods’ to safety assessments.
What is AFSA?
The AFSA collaboration is a unique multi-sector partnership between non-profit, corporate, and philanthropic leaders working to advance acceptance and use of modern safety science without animal testing.
A future without animal testing
Research for drug discovery continues to rely heavily on animal testing despite the limitations associated with this approach. Testing is expensive, can take years to perform and often gives results that are difficult to interpret or use. Considering 92% of new drugs tested in animals fail in human trials, it is important to look to new and more effective approaches to drug development which not only are more ethical, but better protect the safety of consumers and the wider shared environment.
Lhasa Principal Scientist, David Ponting worked on Module 3: Predictive Chemistry of the AFSA Masterclass. He shares his thoughts on the course:
“It’s been valuable to participate in the development of this course, as one of the scientists behind the development of our predictive models, I learned from my fellow authors about how the models are used in practice, while simultaneously being able to provide insights into our thought processes developing the models. As a result, in the predictive chemistry module, attendees will be able to evaluate models from both a practical and a design perspective, helping them to use them to their full power.”
David explains how the course is designed to be accessible across all levels in industry:
“The modular nature of the course means that attendees of the full course will be led through all stages of the risk assessment process in a logical sequence, but also that if you’re short on time or want a quick refresher you can dive straight into the module of interest.”
The first four modules are available now! Register your place via the AFSA website.
Alternatively, get in touch to learn more about how our in silico software solutions can support you in your safety assessments.
