NETVAL Method 1a
PATHHUNTER® BETA-ARRESTIN thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) receptor activation (beta-galactosidase) measuring agonist and antagonist activities | TRH receptor agonism and antagonism | This method is a chemiluminescent in vitro method from Eurofins-DiscoverX which measures the agonist and antagonist activities of test items by assessing the thyrotropin-releasing hormone receptor (TRHR) activation. The method employs the commercially available Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO-K1) engineered to stably express the tagged proteins TRHR and β-Arrestin (PathHunter® CHO-K1 TRHR β-Arrestin Cell Line). Following chemical-TRHR binding, the ProLink™ tagged GPCR is activated inducing the recruitment of Enzyme Acceptor tagged β-Arrestin, forcing complementation of the two enzyme fragments. The resulting functional enzyme hydrolyses the substrate to generate a chemiluminescent signal. | C - no validation pending | TM2019-02 (EU)
https://www.discoverx.com/technologies-platforms/enzyme-fragment-complementation-technology/cell-based-efc-assays/protein-protein-interactions/gpcrs-b-arrestin |
Toxcast assays TOX21_TRHR_HEK293_Agonist TOX21_TRHR_HEK293_Antagonist | TRH receptor agonism and antagonism | This method is a cell-based assay, single-readout assay that uses HEK293T, a human kidney cell line. It has the potential to screen G protein-coupled receptors. A compound/drug can either activate (agonist) or suppress (antagonist) GPCRs and this can be monitored by measuring levels of intracellular calcium, as detected with Fluorescence intensity signals. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/TOX21_TRHR_HEK293_agonist
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/TOX21_TRHR_HEK293_antagonist |
NETVAL Method 1b Thyrotropin-stimulating hormone (TSH) receptor activation based on cAMP measurement | TSH receptor agonism | This method measures the production of cAMP after activation of the thyroid stimulating hormone receptor (TSHR). The production of intracellular adenosine 3’,5’ cyclic monophosphate (cAMP) is important for thyroid hormone physiology. cAMP is a critical component of a signal transduction pathway linking TSHR and its ligand TSH to the activation of adenylate cyclase and therefore cAMP production. The method measures the intracellular cAMP concentration in Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO-K1) transfected with the gene of the human TSHR, using an Enzyme Linked Immuno Sorbent Assay. | B - C - Assessed by the OECD TDM EG. Full assessment could not be done due to lack of active chemicals.
Recommendation for further validation: Optimise the protocol, include antagonist mode of action, identify active chemicals and generate more data. | TM2019-03 (EU)
(Santini et al., 2003) |
Toxcast assays TOX21_TSHR_ HTRF_Agonist_ratio TOX21_TSHR_HTRF_Antagonist_ratio TOX21_TSHR_wt_Agonist_HTRF_ratio | TSH receptor agonism and antagonism | This method is a cell-based single-readout assay that uses HEK293T, a human embryonic kidney cell line. It is designed to make measurements of TSHR agonism or antagonism with cAMP used as indicator, detected with fluorescence intensity signals. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/TOX21_TSHR_HTRF_Agonist_ratio
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/TOX21_TSHR_HTRF_Antagonist_ratio
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/TOX21_TSHR_HTRF_Antagonist_ratio |
| BLOCK #2: THYROID HORMONE SYNTHESIS |
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NETVAL Method 2a Thyroperoxidase (TPO) inhibition based on oxidation of Amplex UltraRed | TPO inhibition | This in vitro method evaluates the peroxidase activity of TPO, a key enzyme for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. The method allows to identify TPO-inhibiting test items by assessing the enzyme activity in prepared extracts from FTC-238 human follicular thyroid carcinoma cells transfected with human recombinant TPO. TPO activity is measured through the oxidation of a commercially-available peroxidase substrate (Amplex UltraRed, AUR, ® LifeTech) and its conversion to a fluorescent product. | B - Assessed by the OECD TDM EG.
Recommendation for further validation: Update and confirm the SOP, then transfer the method to other laboratories to continue validation. | TM2019-04 (EU)
Based on: (Paul et al., 2014; Paul Friedman et al., 2016) |
Toxcast assays CCTE_GLTED_hTPO
TPO inhibition using Amplex Ultrared (ERGO project) | TPO inhibition | This cell-free in vitro method evaluates the peroxidase activity of TPO using cell lysates from transfected HEK293 (Toxcast), HEK293T (ERGO) or Lenti-XTM (Dong et al., 2024) cells overexpressing hTPO with AUR for detection. | C - Comparable to NETVAL method 2a undergoing validation | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CCTE_GLTED_hTPO
(Dong et al., 2020; Dong et al., 2024)
ERGO: (Liu et al., 2024) |
Toxcast assays CCTE_Simmons_AUR_TPO
Thyroid peroxidase inhibition assay on thyroid microsomes (Kaly-Cell3) | TPO inhibition | This in vitro method evaluates the peroxidase activity of TPO in using rat and/or human thyroid microsomes with AUR for detection. | C - SOP and data have been provided to the OECD TDM EG, for assessment and recommendations on further validation.
The TDM EG commented that human thyroid microsomes are a challenge for world-wide applicability of a TG. | (Paul et al., 2014; Paul Friedman et al., 2016) https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CCTE_Simmons_AUR_TPO
Kaly-Cell: Asselin et al. (unpublished report) |
NETVAL Method 2c Tyrosine iodination using liquid chromatography | TPO inhibition | This in vitro method provides information on the TPO-mediated iodination of tyrosine. The conversion from L-tyrosine to Iodotyrosine by TPO that is present in prepared extracts from FTC-238 human follicular thyroid carcinoma cells transfected with human recombinant TPO, is measured with LC-MS/MS. | B - Assessed by the OECD TDM EG.
Recommendation for further validation: Ready for transfer to other laboratories to continue validation. | TM2019-06 (EU)
(Divi & Doerge, 1996; Doerge & Takazawa, 1990; Freyberger & Ahr, 2006; Reinen et al., 2024; Tater et al., 2021) |
| TPO inhibition using ICP-MS (ERGO project) | TPO inhibition | This in vitro method evaluates the effect on both peroxidation and iodide organification activities of TPO. It uses ICP-MS to measure the conversion of L-tyrosine to Iodotyrosine by TPO in cell lysates from transfected HEK293T cells overexpressing hTPO. | C - Comparable to NETVAL method 2c undergoing pre-validation | Liu et al. (unpublished report) based on (Liu et al., 2024) |
NETVAL Method 2b TPO inhibition using luminol
Same method used by other developers with different cell lines. | TPO inhibition | This in vitro method evaluates the peroxidase activity of TPO. Luminescence is used to measure peroxidase activity in cell lysates from transfected HEK293T or FTC-238 cells overexpressing hTPO. | D - validation stopped.
The method was found to be unspecific to TPO (Liu et al., 2024) | TM2019-05 (EU)
(Jomaa et al., 2015; Liu et al., 2024) |
Toxcast Assay CCTE_Simmons_GUA_TPO | TPO inhibition | This in vitro method evaluates the peroxidase activity of TPO using the guaiacol oxidation assay with pig thyroid gland tissue as the source of TPO. | C | (Paul et al., 2014; Tietge et al., 2013) |
| TPO inhibition using guaiacol oxidation assay (Concept Life Sciences4) | TPO inhibition | This in vitro method evaluates the peroxidase activity of TPO. It uses the guaiacol oxidation assay. The test method is available for isolated human/rat/pig/dog thyroid microsomes. | C - Developed to GLP standardization | Studies available on request from CLS. Not yet in the public domain: Rat: CLS4_0001_0019 Dog: CLS4_0001_0030 Pig: CLS4_0001_0031 Human: CLS4_0001_0032 |
NETVAL Method 2d Inhibition of the sodium iodide symporter (NIS) based on Sandell-Kolthoff reaction | NIS inhibition | This in vitro method measures the active transport of extracellular iodide across the cellular membrane of Mel624-CMV hNIS-NEO human melanoma cells expressing a functional human NIS, an intrinsic membrane glycoprotein that actively transports iodide from blood into thyroid follicular cells during the initial step of TH synthesis. This method is designed to identify test items that inhibit NIS-mediated iodide uptake by directly competing with iodide for intracellular transport, or indirectly, through an inhibition of Na+/K+ ATPase that disrupts maintenance of the critical cross-membrane sodium gradient required for NIS functionality. Reduction of intracellular iodide is measured as optical density with a spectrophotometric readout following the Sandell-Kolthoff (SK) reaction. The SK-reaction provides a colorimetric indicator of iodine concentration through the reaction between quadrivalent cerium and trivalent arsenic catalyzed by free iodide in sulphuric acid solution. | C – TDM EG assessment is pending availability of report and data.
A limited amount of data could be produced due to discontinuation of the cell line. Further validation efforts with a new cell line will be needed. | TM2019-07 (EU)
(Hallinger et al., 2017; Waltz et al., 2010; Wang et al., 2018) |
Inhibition Potential of Rat or Human sodium iodide symporter (NIS) function in recombinant HEK cells (Kaly-Cell)
Human NIS inhibition overexpressed in recombinant HEK cells (ERGO project)
NIS inhibition in Fischer Rat Thyroid Low-Serum 5% (FRTL-5) cells. (Concept Life Sciences) | NIS inhibition | This in vitro method provides information on the potential to inhibit the active transport of extracellular iodide across the cellular membrane. It employs the SK reaction on the HEK293 cell line that overexpresses the human or rat NIS or FRTL-5 cells. | B - C – Kaly-Cell method SOP and data have been provided to the OECD TDM EG, for assessment and recommendations on further validation . | Kaly-Cell: Asselin et al. (unpublished report)
ERGO: Kumari et al. (unpublished results)
Study reports available on request from CLS. Study No. Validation study: CLS4_0040_0010 |
| Na+/I- symporter (NIS) inhibition human NIS transfected in MCF7 cells | NIS inhibition | This in vitro method provides information on the potential to inhibit the active transport of extracellular iodide across the cellular membrane. It employs the SK reaction on the MCF7hNIS breast cancer cell line that overexpresses the human sodium iodine symporter (NIS). Similar results have been observed with this cell line as compared to the HEK293 hNIS cell line from the US-EPA. | C | (Dong et al., 2019) |
Toxcast Assay CPHEA_Stoker_NIS_Inhibition_RAIU | NIS inhibition | This in vitro method uses hNIS-HEK293T-EPA, a novel human kidney cell line expressing human NIS. This radioactive iodide uptake (RAIU) assay is used to identify inhibitors of NIS-mediated iodide uptake. | C | (Wang et al., 2021) |
| Human iodotyrosine deiodinase (IYD) inhibition assay (included in ATHENA project) | IYD inhibition | This method uses recombinant human IYD enzyme produced in a baculovirus system with insect cells. The assay measures IYD-liberated iodide with the SK reaction using the native full length form of IYD, monoiodotyrosine (MIT) as the substrate and NADPH as the reducing agent. | C | (Olker et al., 2021; Olker et al., 2022; Renko et al., 2016; Shimizu et al., 2013) |
| BLOCK #3: BINDING AND TRANSPORT IN SERUM |
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NETVAL Method 3a Thyroxine-binding prealbumin (TTR) / thyroxine-binding globulin (TBG) binding using fluorescence displacement (ANSA)
Toxcast Assay CCTE_GLTED_hTTR | TTR/TBG binding | This in chemico method investigates interference of test items with binding of thyroid hormones to human serum transport proteins 'thyroxine-binding prealbumin' (TTR) and 'thyroxine-binding globulin' (TBG). The binding of 8-anilino-1-naphtalenesulfonic acid (ANSA) to TTR or TBG produces fluorophore complexes with intrinsic fluorescence signal. In the presence of competitive ligands, displacement of ANSA occurs and the fluorescence signal detected decreases. Binding/displacement capacity of endocrine/thyroid disrupting chemicals can be assessed and compared to that of 3,3’,5-triiodo-L-thyronine (T3) and/or T4. | B - Assessed by the OECD TDM EG.
Recommendations for further validation: Update and confirm the SOP, Include assessment of TBG, then transfer the method to other laboratories to continue validation. | TM2019-08 (EU)
(Cao et al., 2010; Montano et al., 2012) |
NETVAL Method 3b Thyroxine-binding prealbumin (TTR) binding using fluorescence displacement (T4-FITC)
Same method used in the ERGO project | TTR binding | This in chemico method investigates interference of test items with binding of thyroid hormones to human serum transport protein 'thyroxine-binding prealbumin (TTR)'. The addition of TTR-binding compounds to a mixture of TTR and a fluorescent conjugate FITC-T4 causes a decrease in fluorescence, because the TTR-binding compounds compete FITC-T4 out of the TTR binding-pocket and the FITC-T4 conjugate exhibits higher fluorescence intensity when bound to TTR than in the unbound condition. | B - Assessed by the OECD TDM EG.
An SPSF was submitted by PEPPER and accepted onto the OECD work programme. Validation continued by PEPPER. | TM2019-09 (EU)
(Hamers et al., 2020) |
| TTR binding using mass spectrometry | TTR binding | A triple bioaffinity MS (BioMS) concept is presented in which recombinant TTR (rTTR) and MS are used for different analytical objectives, i.e., rapid screening, confirmation, and identification. First, a rapid and easy to use radiolabel-free competitive MS binding assay uses a stable isotope of a model analyte (13C6-T4) to screen indirectly for the affinity toward rTTR. The isotope-labeled competitor is measured by ultrahigh performance-liquid chromatography-electrospray ionizationtriple-quadrupole-MS (UPLC-QqQ-MS), operating in a dedicated single reaction monitoring mode (SRM). The amount of measured label is indicative for the amount and affinity of rTTR-active compounds in the sample. Second, the same rTTR biorecognition element was used in a bioaffinity isolation procedure in combination with UPLC-QqQ-MS but operating in a multiple reaction monitoring mode (MRM). Third, for identification of any unknown ligands having rTTR bioaffinity, the same rTTR biorecognition element was used in a bioaffinity isolation procedure in combination with UPLC-QTOF-MS operating in the high resolution full-scan accurate mass mode. | C | (Aqai et al., 2012) |
| TTR binding using radioactivity | TTR binding | This assay measures the release of (free) radiolabelled T4 (125I-T4) from hTTR in the presence of waste water treatment plant extracts or the positive control, 2,2',3,4',5,5',6-heptachloro-4-biphenylol (4-OH-CB187). | C | (Meerts et al., 2000; Ucan-Marin et al., 2010) |
| TTR Binding assay | TTR Binding | Free T4, potential competitor chemical and TTR are incubated and the unbound T4 and free chemical molecules are separated from TTR complexes using BioGel columns. | C | (Collet et al., 2020) |
| BLOCK #4 METABOLISM AND EXCRETION |
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NETVAL Method 4a
Deiodinase 1 activity based on Sandell-Kolthoff reaction | DIO1 inhibition | This method assesses the inhibition of thyroid hormone deiodination, the major pathway regulating thyroid hormone bioavailability in mammalian tissues. The method measures the activity of the deiodinase (DIO) 1 enzyme in human liver microsomes (≥ 25 donors of mixed gender and various age). The uninhibited enzyme liberates free iodide from the substrate. Free iodide is measured using the SK method. | B - Assessed by the OECD TDM EG.
An SPSF was submitted by PEPPER and accepted onto the OECD work programme. Validation continued by PEPPER. | TM2019-10 (EU) |
ToxCast Assays CCTE_GLTED_hDIO1, CCTE_GLTED_hDIO2, CCTE_GLTED_hDIO3 | DIO1, DIO2, DIO3 inhibition | These assays are designed to test the inhibitory activity of chemicals toward human DIO1, DIO2 or DIO3 enzymes using HEK293 cells transiently transfected with hDIO1, hDIO2 or hDIO3. The uninhibited enzyme liberates free iodide from the substrate. Free iodide is measured using the SK method. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CCTE_GLTED_hDIO1
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CCTE_GLTED_hDIO2
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CCTE_GLTED_hDIO3
(Hornung et al., 2018; Olker et al., 2019) |
| Human and rat deiodinase inhibition assay (Deiodinase 1, 2 and 3, Kaly-Cell) | DIO1, DIO2, DIO3 inhibition | In vitro inhibition assay of rat and human DIO1, DIO2 and DIO3 using recombinant HEK293 cells ectopically expressing rat or human DIO1, DIO2 or DIO3. For the assay, T4 is used as the substrate for the three DIOs and the deiodination of T4 to T3 (by DIO1 and DIO2) or of T4 to reverse T3 (rT3, 3,3'5'-triodo-L-thyronine, by DIO3) is determined by measuring T3 or rT3 levels via High Performance Liquid Chromatography-High Resolution Mass Spectrometry (HPLC-HRMS). | B - C - SOP and data have been provided to the OECD TDM EG, for assessment and recommendations on further validation | Asselin et al. (unpublished report) |
| Human, rat and dog deiodinase inhibition assay (Deiodinase 1, 2 and 3) (Concept Life Sciences) | DIO1, DIO2, DIO3 inhibition | DIO activities are determined by conversion of T4 or rT3 substrate to T3 (or rT3) and 3,3’-diiodo-L-thyronine (3,3’-T2). The method uses an extract of HEK293 cells expressing recombinant human/rat/dog DIO1, DIO2 and DIO3. Reaction products are quantified by LC-MS/MS. | C-B - GLP standardization is underway. | Study reports available from CLS at year end 2024 |
| Deiodinase 1 activity based on mass spectrometry | DIO1 inhibition | Mass spectrometry–based method for measuring the activity of DIOs in human liver microsomes (DIO1 activity). Although outer ring deiodination (ORD) is catalysed by both DIO1 and DIO2, these reactions presumably only involve DIO1 because it has been shown that DIO2 is not expressed in human liver (Richard et al., 1998) but is highly expressed in other tissues such as the brain, pituitary, and brown adipose tissue. Instrumental analysis was performed by LC with positive electrospray MS/MS (LC-MS/MS) using conditions modified from (Wang & Stapleton, 2010). | C | (Butt et al., 2011; Wang & Stapleton, 2010) |
| Deiodinase 1, 2 and 3 inhibition assay (ERGO project, ATHENA project) | DIO1, DIO2, DIO3 inhibition | DIO1, 2, 3 activities are determined by assessment of free iodide cleaved from rT3, T4, and T3 substrates, respectively. The iodide is assessed using a spectrophotometric absorbance readout following the SK reaction. Based on Renko et al. (2015). DIO activities are assessed in cell lysates of transfected HEK293T cells overexpressing human DIO1, DIO2 and DIO3. | C - Comparable to NETVAL method 4a, based on DIO1 in human microsomes. | (Renko et al., 2012; Renko et al., 2015; Weber et al., 2022)
ERGO: Nešporová et al. (unpublished results) |
| Deiodinase 1 inhibition assay (ERGO project) | DIO1 inhibition | DIO1 activity is determined by assessment of free iodide cleaved from rT3 substrate. The iodide is assessed using a spectrophotometric absorbance readout following the SK reaction. Based on Renko et al. (2015). DIO1 activity is assessed in cell lysates of HepG2 cells intrinsically expressing DIO1. | C - Comparable to NETVAL method 4a, based on DIO1 in human microsomes. | (Renko et al., 2015)
ERGO: Nešporová et al. (unpublished results) |
Deiodination activity measurement using radioimmunoassay (RIA) and chromatography on Sephadex LH-20 columns | DIO1 inhibition | This method measures DIO activity with RIA in human liver microsomes using RIA and chromatography on Sephadex LH-20 columns. | C | (Visser et al., 1988) |
NETVAL Method 4b Inhibition of thyroid hormones (THs) glucuronidation using liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS) | Glucuronidation inhibition | This method assesses the potential of test items to inhibit the metabolism and excretion of THs. Glucuronidation is one of the main pathways in the metabolism of THs (T3 and T4). The method consists in the incubation of either T4 or T3 with human liver microsomes (from ≥ 50 donors of mixed gender and various ages) that contain UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGT), the enzyme involved in the glucuronidation. Following separation and purification, the mixture is analysed by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). Acyl- and Phenolic- Glucuronides are separated and peak identities confirmed. | B – Assessed by the OECD TDM EG.
Recommendation for further validation: Generate more data on inactive chemicals to confirm specificity. Transfer to other laboratories to continue validation. | TM2019-11 (EU)
(Tong et al., 2007) |
Toxcast assays
CLD_UGT1A1_6hr, 24hr or 48hr | Glucuronidation inhibition | This method is one of 16 assay component(s) measured or calculated from the CellzDirect (CLD) assay. It is designed to make measurements of mRNA induction, a form of inducible reporter, as detected with chemiluminescence signals by Quantitative Nuclease Protection Assay (qNPA) technology. It is a cell-based, multiplexed-readout assay that uses hepatocytes, human liver primary cells, with measurements taken at 6, 24 or 48 hours after chemical dosing. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CLD_UGT1A1_6hr
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CLD_UGT1A1_24hr
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CLD_UGT1A1_48hr
(Rotroff et al., 2010) |
Toxcast assays LTEA_HepaRG_UGT1A1 LTEA_HepaRG_UGT1A6 | Glucuronidation inhibition | The assay is based on a high-throughput transcriptomic analysis of 93 transcripts related to xenobiotic receptor activation, including UGT1A1 and UGT1A6 in human liver HepaRG cells treated for 48h. Gene expression is evaluated by qRT-PCR. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/LTEA_HepaRG_UGT1A1
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/LTEA_HepaRG_UGT1A6
(Franzosa et al., 2021) |
NETVAL Method 4c Inhibition of thyroid hormones (THs) sulphation using liquid chromatography. | Sulphation inhibition | This method assesses the potential of test items to inhibit the metabolism and excretion of THs. Sulphation is one of the main pathways in the metabolism of THs (T3 and T4). The method consists in the incubation of either T4 or T3 with human liver cytosol of mixed gender donors sulphotransferase (SULT), the enzyme involved in the sulphation. Following separation and purification, the mixture is analysed by liquid chromatography. | C | TM2019-12 (EU) |
Toxcast assays CLD_SULT2A_6hr, 24hr or 48hr | Sulphation inhibition | This method is one of 16 assay component(s) measured or calculated from the CLD assay. It is designed to make measurements of mRNA induction of sulphotransferase (SULT) as detected with chemiluminescence signals by qNPA technology. It is a cell-based, multiplexed-readout assay that uses hepatocytes, human liver primary cells, with measurements taken at 6, 24 or 48 hours after chemical dosing. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CLD_SULT2A_6hr
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CLD_SULT2A_24hr
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/CLD_SULT2A_48hr
(Rotroff et al., 2010) |
Toxcast assays LTEA_HepaRG_SULT2A1 | Sulphation inhibition | The assay is based on a high-throughput transcriptomic analysis of 93 transcripts related to xenobiotic receptor activation, including SULT2A1. Human liver HepaRG cells are treated for 48h. Gene expression is evaluated by qRT-PCR. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/LTEA_HepaRG_SULT2A1
(Franzosa et al., 2021) |
| Induction of thyroxine (T4) glucuronidation in primary hepatocytes (Kaly-Cell) | Glucuronidation induction | This method assesses the induction of T4 glucuronide in rat and human primary hepatocytes cultured in a 2D-sandwich configuration with a 7-day exposure. T4, T4-G, T4-S and T3/rT3 are quantified using HPLC-HRMS.T4 metabolism was 9 times higher in primary rat hepatocytes than in primary human hepatocytes. | C
This method was validated in-house | (Parmentier et al., 2022; Baze et al., 2024) |
| UGT Induction assay utilizing LC-MS/MS (Concept Life Sciences) | Glucuronidation induction | This method is designed for: a) Assessment of induction of CYP (Cytochrome P450) and UGT genes by measuring mRNA levels. b) T4-UGT Enzyme activity Assay: Assessment of enzyme activity by LC-MS/MS bioanalysis of formation of T4-Glucuronide metabolite and T4 clearance in rat and human hepatocyte incubates. Primary Rat and Human Hepatocytes are treated up to 6 days in culture. CYP and UGT mRNA levels are measured and a T4 UGT enzyme activity assay is conducted based on LC-MS/MS. Measurement of T4 Clearance is optional. | C-B - Developed to GLP standardization | Study available on request to CLS CLS4_0026_0020 Poster presentation at SOT and EUROTOX (refs to be added) |
| UDPGT activity measurement using radioactivity and chromatography on Sephadex LH-20 mini-columns | Glucuronidation induction | Radioactivity measurements of T3 and T4 UGT activities in rat liver microsomes. Hepatic T3 and T4 UGT activities were quantified as the amount of 125I-T4 or 125I-T3 glucuronide produced (separated by chromatography). Developed by Beetstra et al. (1991) and modified by Hood & Klaassen (2000). | C | (Beetstra et al., 1991; Hood & Klaassen 2000) |
| Sulphotransferase activity measurement using radioactivity and chromatography on Sephadex LH-20 mini-columns | Sulphation induction | Assessment of iodothyronine sulphotransferase activities after incubation of T4, T3, rT3 or 3,3'-T2 and 125I-labeled compound with liver cytosol or recombinant sulphotransferase preparations in the presence or absence of 3’-phosphoadenosine-5’phos-phosulphate (PAPS). 3,3'-T2 sulphate formation was analysed by chromatography on Sephadex LH-20 minicolumns as described by Visser et al., (1993). Method was used for preliminary characterization of iodothyronine sulfotransferase activities of rat and human liver cytosol and recombinant rSULT1C1 and hSULT1A1 isoenzymes. | C | (Beetstra et al., 1991; Visser et al., 1993; Visser et al., 1998) |
| Sulphotransferase activity measurement using radioactivity and SPE LC-MS/MS | Sulphation induction/inhibition | Modification of method by Visser et al. (1998). The primary modifications are the use of human liver cytosol and solid phase extraction (SPE) for sample clean-up and the use of LC-MS/MS for thyroid hormones and sulphated metabolite analysis. | C | (Butt & Stapleton, 2013) |
| Oestrogen sulphotransferase (SULT 1E1) activity and supplies of PAPS synthetase as a cofactor | Sulphation induction/inhibition | The sulphation process relies on the SULT enzymes and on supplies of PAPS as co-factor. For SULT 1E1 the methodology utilises human liver cytosol, prepared from snap-frozen human donor liver surplus to surgical requirements as the enzyme source of SULT 1E1 (Harris et al., 2005). Oestradiol (E2) sulphonation was measured using a method based on cDNA transfection (Qian et al., 1998). The quantification of PAPSS1 mRNA expression uses the human neuronal medulloblastoma (TE671) cell line treated with test compounds for 24 h. Levels of mRNA were measured via quantitative real time PCR (Turan et al., 2005). | C-B | (Harris et al., 2005; Qian et al., 1998; Turan et al., 2005; Waring et al., 2012) |
| Sulphotransferase activity measurement using radioactivity with liquid scintillation spectrometry | Sulphation induction/inhibition | This method examined activity of the SULTs involved in iodothyronine metabolism during human placental development. SULT enzyme activity was measured with either PAP35S or radioactively labelled substrates (iodothyronines) as described by Visser et al. (1998) and was optimized with respect to substrate, PAPS and cytosolic protein concentration, buffer composition, and incubation time. | C | (Stanley et al., 2001) |
TM2009-14 (EU) Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme induction in vitro method using cryopreserved differentiated human HepaRG™ cells | Phase I induction | The human cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme induction method assesses the potential of test chemicals to induce the activity of three CYP enzymes (CYP1A2, CYP2B6 and CYP3A sub-family) in cryopreserved differentiated human HepaRG™ cells. At the molecular level, CYP enzyme induction is a process controlled by a set of nuclear receptors associated with downstream signal transduction pathways. The human HepaRG™ cell model is a suitable candidate human hepatic metabolic competent test system. A cocktail of three specific CYP enzymatic substrate probes is applied to the cells and CYP enzyme induction is assessed through the measurement of the specific metabolite formation by CYP1A2, 2B6 and 3A sub-family by LC/MS. | A – Validation finalised, chemical augmentation for proficiency chemicals finalised.
An OECD Test Guideline is under development and additional testing in three laboratories, of chemicals to widen the applicability of the TG, is completed. | TM2009-14 (EU)
(Bernasconi et al., 2019; Jacobs et al., 2022) and additional manuscripts in prep. |
Additional tools are available looking at enzyme induction using primary liver tissues, microsomes, S9 mix, .. (see below). However, during a validation exercise led by EURL ECVAM, the high variability of the primary human liver tissues led to the OECD WNT conclusion that this test method was insufficiently reproducible for test guideline purposes. The use of S9 mix as a shorter term application, pending validation of a more optimum method such as the CYP Induction test method (Bernasconi et al., 2019), was first reviewed in OECD in 2008 and published again in 2014 (Jacobs et al., 2008; Jacobs et al., 2013; OECD, 2014a, first published in 2008). |
| Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme induction in vitro method (EROD) using fluorescence spectroscopy. | Phase I induction | Measurement of EROD (marker of CYP1A1 activity) in rat liver microsomes with fluorescence spectroscopy (Burke & Mayer, 1974) and modifications to increase substrate stability (Pohl & Fouts, 1980), increase throughput (De Vito et al., 1993). | C | (Burke & Mayer, 1974; De Vito et al., 1993; Pohl & Fouts, 1980) |
| Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme induction in vitro method (EROD) using fluorescence spectroscopy. | Phase I induction | Measurement of EROD activity (marker of CYP1A2 activity) in human and rat liver microsomes or cell monolayers using a fluorimetric assay. | C | (Burke et al., 1985; Pearce et al., 1996; Richert et al., 2009) |
| Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme induction in vitro method (acetanilide-4-hydroxylase assay) using reverse phase HPLC. | Phase I induction | Measurement of CYP1A2 activity (acetanilide-4-hydroxylase assay) in human and rat liver microsomes. Reverse phase HPLC-based assay. | C | (Liu et al., 1991) |
| Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme induction in vitro method (bupropion hydroxylase assay) | Phase I induction | Measurement of CYP2B6 activity (bupropion hydroxylation) in human and rat liver microsomes. | C | (Faucette et al., 2000) |
| Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme induction in vitro method (testosterone 6β-hydroxylase assay) using HPLC. | Phase I induction | Measurement of CYP3A4/5 activity (testosterone 6β-hydroxylation) in human and rat liver microsomes or cell monolayers. Most commonly an HPLC-based assay. | C | (Alexandre et al., 2012; McKillop et al., 1998; Richert et al., 2009; Sonderfan et al., 1987) |
| Cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme induction in vitro method (EROD, MROD) using HPLC with fluorescence detection | Phase I induction | Sensitive method for the determination of CYP1A activities such as EROD and MROD in liver microsomes from human, monkey, rat and mouse by high-performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection. | C | (Hanioka et al., 2000) |
| BLOCK #5 LOCAL CELLULAR CONCENTRATIONS |
|---|
NETVAL Method 5a
Inhibition of monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8) based on Sandell-Kolthoff reaction
Similar method in the ATHENA and PARC projects | TH membrane transporter inhibition | This in vitro method measures the active transport of T3 across the plasma membrane by monocarboxylate transporter 8 (MCT8). T3 uptake by Madin Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells stably transfected with human MCT8, is measured with a specrophotometric absorbance readout following the SK reaction. | B - C
Assessment by TDM EG is pending availability of the SOP, study report and data. | TM2019-13 (EU)
(Dong & Wade, 2017; Jayarama-Naidu et al., 2015; Johannes et al., 2016; Wagenaars et al., 2024b) |
| Inhibition of thyroid hormone transmembrane transporter protein OATP1C1 (ATHENA project) | TH membrane transporter inhibition | This in vitro method uses CHO-K1 cells overexpressing OATP1C1, and measures the uptake of radiolabeled T4 compared to control cell lines. | C - Info from Method Developer 09-2024: The SOP is in preparation. Optimisation of the protocol towards an LC-MS readout to avoid the use of radiolabelled T4 and facilitate transfer to another laboratory, is being considered. | (Wagenaars et al., 2024a) |
Inhibition of thyroid hormone transmembrane transporter protein OAT4 (ATHENA project) | TH membrane transporter inhibition | This in vitro method uses MDCK-1 cells overexpressing OAT4, and measures the uptake of radiolabeled T4 compared to control cell lines. | C - Info from Method Developer 09-2024: The SOP is in preparation. Optimisation of the protocol towards an LC-MS readout to avoid the use of radiolabelled T4 and facilitate transfer to another laboratory, is being considered. | (Wagenaars et al., 2024a) |
| BLOCK #6 CELLULAR RESPONSES |
|---|
NETVAL Method 6a Human thyroid hormone receptor alpha (TRα) and Human thyroid hormone receptor beta (TRβ) reporter gene transactivation measuring agonist activities | TR activation (agonism) | This method assesses the activation of thyroid hormone receptor alpha (TRα) and beta (TRβ). It is making use of proprietary human HEK293 cells engineered to provide constitutive, high-level expression of the human TRα and TRβ coupled with a highly responsive luciferase reporter gene (commercially available kit from INDIGO Biosciences). Quantification of changes in luciferase expression in the treated vs. untreated reporter cells by detection of luminescence provides a sensitive measure of changes in TR activation without collateral induction/suppression of genes that are otherwise regulated by these transcription factors. This method measures agonist TR functional activity. | B - Assessed by the OECD TDM EG.
Recommendation for further validation: Include procedure to measure TR antagonism. Identify more active agonist and antagonist chemicals. Transfer to other laboratories for further validation. | TM2019-14 (EU)
(Robitaille et al., 2022; Vanden Heuvel, 2021)
https://indigobiosciences.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/TM_EUC-THR96LCMA-v7.2.pdf |
NETVAL Method 6b CALUX human thyroid hormone receptor beta (TRβ) reporter gene transactivation measuring agonist and antagonist activities | TRβ activation (agonism and antagonism) | This method assesses the activation of TRβ using proprietary TRβ CALUX® cells which originated from a human osteoblastic osteosarcoma U2OS line. These cells express a functioning human TRβ coupled with a luciferase reporter gene. Test items with an agonist or antagonist effect on TR activity can be detected and an increase or decrease of TR signalling results in corresponding changes in the expression of luciferase activity that can be measured with a luminometer. | B – Assessed by the OECD TDM EG
Recommendation for further validation: Identify more active agonist and antagonist chemicals. Transfer to other laboratories for further validation. | TM2019-15 (EU) (Simon et al., 2016) |
Toxcast assays ATG_THRa1_TRANS ATG_THRb_TRANS2 | TR activation (agonism) | These are cell-based, multiplexed-readout assays that use a HepG2 human liver cell line, with measurements taken at 24 h after chemical dosing. It is designed to make measurements of mRNA induction, as detected with fluorescence intensity signals by RT-PCR and capillary electrophoresis technology. Changes in fluorescence intensity signals are indicative of inducible changes in transcription factor activity. This is quantified by the level of mRNA reporter sequence unique to the transfected trans-acting reporter gene and exogenous transcription factors. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/ATG_THRa1_TRANS
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/ATG_THRb_TRANS2
(Martin et al., 2010; Medvedev et al., 2018; Romanov et al., 2008) |
Toxcast assays
ATG_hTRa_XSP1 and XSP2 ATG_hTRb_XSP1 and XSP2 | TR activation (agonism) | ATG_XSP1/XSP2_multi-species_TRANS is a cell-based, multiplexed assay created by modifying the existing Attagene TRANS-FACTORIAL system to include a panel of nuclear receptors from some or all of the following species: human (Homo sapiens), mouse (Mus musculus), frog (Xenopus laevis), zebrafish (Danio rerio), chicken (Gallus gallus), and turtle (Chrysemys picta). The ECOTOX-FACTORIAL format uses HepG2, a human liver cell line, with measurements taken at 24 h after chemical dosing. Xsp1 includes 3 nM 6-alpha-fluorotestosterone to partially stimulate the androgen receptor. Xsp2 includes 3 nM 6-alpha-fluorotestosterone and 1.5 nM norgestrel to stimulate the androgen receptor. It is designed to make measurements of mRNA induction as detected with fluorescence intensity signals by RT-PCR and capillary electrophoresis technology. Changes in fluorescence intensity signals are indicative of inducible changes in transcription factor activity. This is quantified by the level of mRNA reporter sequence unique to the trans-acting reporter gene response element. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/ATG_hTRa_XSP1
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/ATG_hTRa_XSP2
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/ATG_hTRb_XSP1
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/ATG_hTRb_XSP2
(Medvedev et al., 2020; Houck et al., 2021) |
Toxcast assays NVS_NR_hTRa_Antagonist | TRα activation (antagonism) | This method is a biochemical, single-readout assay that uses extracted gene-proteins in a cell-free assay. Measurements were taken 1 h after chemical dosing. It is an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with chemiluminescence signals by AlphaLISA immunoassay technology. Changes in chemiluminescence signals produced from the receptor-ligand binding of the key ligand T3 are indicative of a change in receptor antagonist activity for the human TRα. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/NVS_NR_hTRa_Antagonist (Moriyama et al., 2002; Knudsen et al., 2011; Sipes et al., 2013) |
Toxcast assays TOX21_TR_LUC_GH3_Agonist TOX21_TR_LUC_GH3_Antagonist | TR activation (agonism and antagonism) | This method is a cell-based, single-readout assay that uses GH3, a rat pituitary gland cell line, with measurements taken at 28 h after chemical dosing. It is designed to make measurements of luciferase induction, as detected with bioluminescence signals by CellTiter-Glo Luciferase-coupled ATP quantitation technology. Changes in bioluminescence signals produced from an enzymatic reaction involving the key substrate [One-Glo] are indicative of changes in transcriptional gene expression due to agonist or antagonist activity regulated by the human TRα and TRβ. | C | https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/TOX21_TR_LUC_GH3_Agonist
https://comptox.epa.gov/dashboard/assay-endpoints/TOX21_TR_LUC_GH3_Antagonist
(Freitas et al., 2011; Freitas et al., 2014; Paul-Friedman et al., 2019) |
| TR transactivation | TR activation (agonism and antagonism) | A number of methods are based on transfection of different cell lines with plasmids carrying mostly the human TRα and/or TRβ genes coupled with a responsive luciferase reporter gene to provide information on the agonistic or antagonistic interaction with the TR. Cell lines used are: PZ-TR cells (based on HepG2 cells), CV-1 green monkey kidney cells, CHO-K1 hamster ovary cells, HeLa cells, HepG2 cells and PC12 rat adrenal cells. The latter is transfected with avian TR (Valdehita et al., 2014). Chemicals activating or inhibiting (in the presence of an activator) the receptor can be identified by changes in luminescence signals. | C | (Bai et al., 2018; Du et al., 2013; Fini et al., 2012; Hu et al., 2013; Ren et al., 2019; Sharan et al., 2014; Shi et al., 2011; Shi et al., 2012a; Shi et al., 2012b; Shi et al., 2016; Valdehita et al., 2014; Illés et al., 2015; Zhang et al., 2011; Zhang et al., 2016; Zhang et al., 2019) |
| TR binding | TR activation (binding) | Different methods were used to measure the binding of chemicals to human TR, such as Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) or cell-free models using the rat or the human TRα1 Ligand Binding Domain (LBD), also in connection with recruitment of corepressor and coactivators. | C | (Lévy-Bimbot et al., 2012; Nakamura et al., 2013; Xiang et al., 2017) |
| BLOCK #7 RELEVANT SHORT-TERM ASSAYS INTEGRATING MULTIPLE MOAS |
|---|
| Human Thyroid Microtissue test method (US-EPA) | TH synthesis inhibition Altered T3 and T4 levels | Medium-throughput organotypic screening assay comprised of reconstructed human thyroid microtissues to quantitatively evaluate the disruptive effects of chemicals on T3 and T4 production and secretion. Assay endpoints include microtissue morphology, thyroid hormone synthesis, and viability. After stimulation with TSH, the following genes important for TH synthesis are expressed. TSHR, TG, TPO, SLC5A5 (NIS), SLC26A4 (pendrin), DUOX1, DUOX2, DUOXA1, DUOXA2. | B – validation ongoing | (Deisenroth et al., 2020) |
| Mouse thyroid-on-a-Chip (SCREENED project) | Nuclear receptor activation | This method uses organoids with mouse embryonic stem cells derived from thyroid follicles that retain expression of key thyroid genes and a typical follicular structure as well as T4 synthesis capacity. So far, transcriptional changes after exposure to a PAH have shown activation of the xenobiotic AhR pathway. Other responses remain to be investigated. As a further development of the system, a modular microfluidic organoid platform using LEGO-like bricks reduces operation time and allows the fluidic combination of various modular bricks with different functionalities. Complementing the current mouse thyroid-on-a-chip, a human thyroid-on-a-chip as well as bioprinted versions of the mice and human thyroid-on-a-chip are under development. | C | (Carvalho et al., 2023; Carvalho et al., 2024) |
| Thyroid gland explant culture assay | TH synthesis inhibition | Ex vivo assay based on Xenopus laevis thyroid gland explant culture in which inhibition of thyroxine (T4) release is the measured endpoint. Detection of the T4 released by the glands is done via commercially available canine T4 RIA kit using radioactive 125-I labelled T4. Although the assay may reflect the potential for a chemical to alter T4 release from the thyroid gland, the specific mechanism(s) by which this is produced are not identified. | C | (Hornung et al., 2010; Hornung et al., 2015) |
| BLOCK #8 INTEGRATIVE CELLULAR ASSAYS |
|---|
NETVAL Method 8a T-screen assay - Measurement of proliferation of rat pituitary-derived cell line GH3 | TR activation (agonism and antagonism) | This method measures effects (agonism or antagonism) on the thyroid receptor via measurement of T3-dependent growth (induction or inhibition) in T3 depleted medium. The assay uses a rat pituitary tumour cell line (GH3) in serum-free medium. Compounds are tested in the absence and presence of 0.5 nM T3. The assay can be used to study interference of test items with TH at the cellular level, thus bridging the gap between limitations of assays using either isolated molecules (enzymes, transport proteins) or complex in vivo experiments with all the complex feedback mechanisms present. GH3 cell growth, which is measured with the colorimetric AlamarBlue™ assay is increased in the presence of TH agonists and decreased in the presence of TH antagonists. | B - Assessed by the OECD TDM EG.
The method identifies chemicals activating the TR, but cannot distinguish THSDCs from e.g. steroids or growth factors.
Recommendation for further validation: Identify more active chemicals. Transfer to other laboratories for further validation. | TM2019-17 (EU)
(Ghisari & Bonefeld-Jorgensen, 2005; Ghisari & Bonefeld-Jorgensen, 2009; Gutleb et al., 2005; Kusk et al., 2011; Waring et al., 2012) |
NETVAL Method 8b Proliferation, migration and oligodendrocyte maturation (including myelin formation) in mixed neuronal/glial culture (neurospheres) derived from human induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (hiPSC) | TR activation (agonism and antagonism) | THSD can interfere with proliferation, migration and differentiation of oligodendrocytes which may lead to neurodevelopmental impairments. Inhibition or induction of myelination is related to activation or inactivation of TRs. The method encompasses evaluation of these biological processes using mixed neuronal/glial culture derived from human induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (hiPSC) cultured as free-floating neurospheres. Cell viability, proliferation, migration and differentiation measured by expression of myelin specific proteins are assessed following a 1–2-week treatment with test items. | C - This method will be further considered in the context of developmental neurotoxicity by EFSA for which myelination is an important endpoint. | TM2019-18 (EU)
(Chesnut et al., 2021) |
NETVAL Method 8c In vitro human adipose stromal cell - human umbilical vein endothelial cell (hASC-HUVEC) vasculogenesis/angiogenesis method | TR activation (agonism and antagonism) | THSD can interfere with vasculogenesis and angiogenesis and can be assessed using human primary adipose stromal cells and human primary umbilical vein endothelial cells co-culture without any artificial matrixes. Inhibition or induction of tubule formation is related to activation or inactivation of TRs. In the method the effect on the formation of vasculature is measured six days after the exposure by quantifying the formed tubules using image analysis. Cell viability test (WST-1) is used to measure general cytotoxicity to clarify if the inhibitory mechanism is related to cytotoxicity. | C - The OECD TDM EG is not planning further work on assessment of this method.
This method has more relevance for reproductive toxicity (validation status B) | TM2019-19 (EU)
(Toimela et al., 2017) |