Toward the future of immunotoxicology

<p>Immunotoxicology research has progressed with establishment of test methods, international harmonization of evaluation procedures and mechanism-based assessment of immunotoxicity. ICH S8 guideline obviously drew attention to immunotoxicology. Weight of evidence approach is ingeniously taken considering the development process of pharmaceuticals. Immunotoxicological evaluation of new modality drugs (e.g., antibody and nucleic acid drugs), however, are not covered by the S8 guideline. </p><p>Currently, the necessity of the guideline for these new modality drugs is widely discussed around the world. Related immunotoxicity data which can be shared among the experts are now intensively discussed in the immunotoxicology community. There are three options in this matter; no guideline, revision of S8 guideline and newly-developed guideline. The last option may be beneficial and feasible. </p><p>It is extremely important to study the (immuno)toxicity of environmental chemicals to maintain the sustainable world. As for environmental chemicals, arsenic, tin, TCDD, and further in recent years asbestos, microparticulate matters, bisphenol A, phthalic esters and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) have been the subject of immunotoxicity assessment due to the public concern raised. The mechanism study of the immunotoxicity is appreciated. At the same time, the significance of field works and epidemiological studies of environmental chemicals should be reconsidered. </p><p>Immunotoxicology holds an important position in the field of toxicology, because liver, renal, dermal and reproductive toxicities and carcinogenicity are sometimes closely associated with immunotoxicity. The presentation will give a chance to think about the current standpoint for immunotoxicology researchers.</p>