Genomic Allergen Rapid Detection (GARD) Methods Peer-Reviewed by ESAC

The Scientific Advisory Committee of the European Commission Joint Research Centre’s EU Reference Laboratory for alternatives to animal testing (ESAC) have assessed two genomic allergen rapid detection (GARD) test methods—which process genomic data using machine learning algorithms—for their scientific validity.

GARDskin is used to identify skin allergens and can be used in a weight of evidence approach for skin sensitisation hazard assessments. In cases where GARDskin provides a positive result, it may be used as a standalone method to identify skin sensitisers. The ESAC recommended that GARDskin is ready for further consideration at the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development for possible development as a Test Guideline.

GARDpotency is designed to identify whether a sensitiser is weak or strong, but the ESAC require further information before they can recommend its use.