Avaliação de métodos alternativos aos testes em animais: uma abordagem in vitro

Abstract

Animal testing in the safety assessment of cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, personal care products and pesticides has been the subject of numerous ethical and scientific debates. Growing ethical concerns about animal welfare, coupled with technological advancements, have driven the search for experimental models that are more precise, rapid, and cost-effective. In this context, the development of alternative methods, such as in vitro tests, emerges as a promising alternative. In vitro methods offer several advantages over animal testing, such as greater reproducibility, lower cost, and reduced animal suffering. However, there are still challenges to be overcome, such as the need for standardization of protocols and the qualification of professionals. In view of this, this systematic review analyzed the literature on the use of in vitro methods in Brazil, with the aim of assessing their effectiveness in replacing animal testing and analyzing how Brazilian researchers are using the methods already recognized nationally. The results demonstrated a growing interest and adoption of these methods in the country, with emphasis on the assessment of skin and eye irritation, phototoxicity, and genotoxicity. Alternative methods represent a valuable tool for the cosmetics and pharmaceutical industry, contributing to the development of safer and more ethical products. Brazilian legislation has been advancing towards encouraging the adoption of these methods, but it is essential that there be continuous investment in research and development to improve existing methodologies and create new alternatives.