RESEARCH STRATEGY FOR ASSESSING HUMAN RISK FROM INHALED NASAL TOXICANTS

Information exists on the nasal toxicity in humans of only a few xenob iotic compounds. Thus, as for many other materials, it is necessary to conduct studies in laboratory animal species and extrapolate the find ings to people. This article advocates a strategy for conducting such research that emphasizes the need for obtaining a mechanistic and quan titative understanding of the linkages between exposure and dose to cr itical biological targets and adverse responses. central to the strate gy is the conduct and integration of data obtained from physical and c hemical characterization of potential toxicants, in vitro studies with cells and tissues from humans and laboratory animals, in vivo studies in laboratory animals, and human data when they exist.