Research in toxicology

Mikroskopaufnahme von Zellen.
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What it's about

For its scientific risk assessment, the BfRshort forGerman Federal Institute for Risk Assessment requires knowledge about the properties, mechanisms of action and functionality of substances.

Our tasks

A scientific risk assessment requires knowledge of the properties and mechanisms of action of individual substances and, subsequently, of substance mixtures.

The research conducted by the BfRshort forGerman Federal Institute for Risk Assessment consists of laboratory-based molecular biology and cell biology methods, as well as non-laboratory-based scientific approaches (e. g. scientific evaluation of health-related human data; in-silico modelling) and animal research approaches to elucidate the toxicological mechanisms of action of ingredients and contaminants in food and feed as well as in chemicals, pesticides and consumer products.

The further development of test methods and strategies (in vitro, in silico) for identifying the toxicological potential of substances as an alternative method in line with the 3R concept is a key area of BfRshort forGerman Federal Institute for Risk Assessment's toxicological research.

Research areas

  • Research on nanomaterials

    The BfR conducts its own research to support the assessment of health risks from nanomaterials and risk communication.

  • Research on toxic substances in consumer goods, cosmetic products and tobacco

    There is a need for research in the field of product safety, both in the analytical and in the toxicological area.

  • Research on the use of QSAR in chemical assessment

    As part of the authorisation procedure for chemicals and other toxicologically relevant substances, extensive toxicological testing is required.

  • Research on the use of gene and protein expression analyses in risk assessment

    Gene expression analyses enable meaningful information on the toxicity mechanisms of substances to be obtained quickly and the number of stressful animal studies to be reduced.

  • Research for safety factors deduction

    The aim of the health risk assessment of chemical substances is to minimise or eliminate potential hazards by setting reasonable limits for exposure.

  • Research on the biofunctionality and safety of food

    Modern molecular biological and cellular methods are being developed for health assessments, for example of novel foods and new food additives.

  • Research on contaminants in food and feed

    Food and feed may contain contaminants. In order to assess these contaminants in terms of their effect on health, analytical methods are developed and validated.

  • Research on endocrine disruptors and hormone-mimicking substances

    The hormonal system is influenced by numerous internal and external factors. Many natural and synthetic substances can affect it when they enter the body.

Our newsletters

The BfRshort forGerman Federal Institute for Risk Assessment offers you various newsletters in German and English.