The UK government has recently unveiled a national strategy to accelerate the phase-out of animal testing in research and product development. The plan includes clear timelines and governance to ensure that validated non-animal methods replace traditional tests by 2026, including skin sensitization, where SenzaGen is a leader with its GARD® platform, and also in areas such as skin and eye irritation testing.
This initiative is part of a growing global trend in which new technologies and regulatory changes make it possible to replace animal testing with safer and more effective non-animal methods. Earlier this year, the FDA and NIH in the U.S. announced similar changes, focusing on phasing out animal testing in the pharmaceutical industry.
"The UK government's announcement confirms that the transition to non-animal testing is now accelerating, which strengthens SenzaGen's commercial opportunities. Our GARD® platform, powered by genomics and machine learning, has already been approved by OECD for skin sensitization testing, and we have successfully expanded our portfolio to also include skin and eye irritation testing," says Peter Nählstedt, CEO of SenzaGen.
Unlike previous UK strategies, the new plan includes specific timelines, governance, and a validation framework to ensure that alternative methods are accepted. It also includes investments in data infrastructure and AI, while promoting technologies such as organoids and AI-based toxicology-areas included as strategic initiatives in SenzaGen's recently communicated growth strategy.
Contacts
Peter Nählstedt, President and CEO, SenzaGen AB
Email: peter.nahlstedt@senzagen.com | Tel: +46 46-275 62 00
Tina Dackemark Lawesson, VP Marketing & Communications
Email: tina.lawesson@senzagen.com | Tel: +46 46-275 62 00
About us
SenzaGen is a corporate group on its way to becoming a leading player in non-animal testing, driving the shift from animal experiments to methods that more accurately reflect human biology. Leveraging cutting-edge technology, the company offers high-performance non-animal test methods and expert advisory services. These methods are more effective, precise, and cost-efficient than traditional animal-based approaches and contribute to a substantial reduction in the number of laboratory animals used worldwide. SenzaGen's growth strategy focuses on strengthening its position in both established and new markets through direct sales, complementary partnerships, an expanded test portfolio, and recognized thought leadership. The company also maintains a long-term acquisition agenda to accelerate commercial potential. SenzaGen has its headquarters and GLP-certified laboratory in Lund, Sweden, along with subsidiaries in Italy and the USA. For more information, visit www.senzagen.com.
SenzaGen is listed on Nasdaq Stockholm First North (ticker: SENZA). FNCA Sweden AB is the company's Certified Adviser.