In Vitro Methods of Toxicology

Current concern regarding the use of expensive animals for toxic effect testing of new drugs and old treatment agents is creating increased interest in systems that use fewer animal and human subjects. In vitro methods offer systems that can evaluate selected aspects of toxicity rapidly, cheaply, and concisely. This book examines in vitro methods for testing the toxic, pharmacological, and immunological effects of drugs. Applications for these methods are discussed, including potential benefits and pitfalls of their use. Particular emphasis is placed on key systems affected by drugs, including the heart, kidney, liver, and immune system. The potential advantages and disadvantages of these methods compared to in vivo studies are also outlined in evaluating the data.Watson, Ronald R. is the author of 'In Vitro Methods of Toxicology' with ISBN 9780849372988 and ISBN 0849372984.