ESTIV Applied Training Course 2025 at CEM SAS: International Training in Alternative Testing Methods for Experts Across Europe
The Centre of Experimental Medicine of the Slovak Academy of Sciences (CEM SAS) hosted last week the prestigious 10th edition of the ESTIV Applied Training Course 2025, one of the most prominent European training programs in in vitro toxicology and New Approach Methodologies (NAMs).
Organized in collaboration with the European Society of Toxicology In Vitro (ESTIV) and experts from CEM SAS, the course welcomed participants not only from Slovakia and EU Member States, but also from Turkey, Brazil, and the United States. Over five days, attendees followed an intensive program focused on applied laboratory procedures, OECD and ISO regulatory frameworks, and the practical use of reconstructed human 3D tissue models and microfluidics in modern toxicological research and in the safety assessment of chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices.
A total of 19 lecturers from Belgium, the Netherlands, Luxembourg, Italy, Germany, and Slovakia contributed to the program.
The program included:
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expert lectures on selected toxicological topics,
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training in risk assessment for genotoxicity and eye irritation,
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principles of method validation, work under OECD GLP and GIVIMP frameworks,
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hands-on training using reconstructed 3D ocular and intestinal tissue models,
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demonstrations of microfluidic platforms and in vitro inhalation toxicity technologies,
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discussions on the regulatory implementation of alternative test methods.
“It is extremely important for us to support the transfer of methodologies into laboratories and to strengthen expertise in modern testing strategies. CEM SAS has been a long-standing partner in European projects focused on advanced in vitro and in silico models and their regulatory implementation,” said Dr. Helena Kandarová, ERT, Director of the Institute of Experimental Pharmacology and Toxicology at CEM SAS and President of ESTIV.
Participants highly appreciated the scientific quality of the course, the interactive approach of the lecturers, and the opportunity to work directly with advanced 3D tissue models, which play a key role in the transition toward alternative toxicological approaches with strong predictive value for human health.
The ESTIV Applied Training Course is one of the few programs recommended by EUROTOX as part of Module B19 (In Vitro Toxicology) for obtaining the professional title ERT – European Registered Toxicologist. It thus represents an essential platform for training the next generation of toxicologists.
Co-organizing this event strengthens the international position of Slovakia in the field of alternative test methods and modern experimental medicine, added Dr. Kandarová.
Compiled by Helena Kandarová