Research Highlights

EPA's QSAR/VFAR Workshop

When data are limited, it is necessary to develop and apply special techniques to aid in the risk assessment process. One viable option is the use of non-empirical parameters that can be calculated directly from a chemical structure. This approach is available through the application of Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship (QSAR) models, which have already proven to be both appropriate and useful for chemicals having large quantities of known physical or chemical data.

QSARs can relate a chemical’s biological activity, such as Lowest Observed Adverse Effect Level (LOAEL), Effective Concentration (EC50), and carcinogenicity, to its structural components (physicochemical properties). In addition to QSAR methodology, a new and evolving methodology called Virulence Factor Activity Relationship (VFAR) is emerging for estimating the health hazards posed by biological organisms. The concept of VFAR was developed as a way to relate the architectural and biochemical components (such as biotoxins) of a microorganism to its potential to cause human disease.

This workshop will convene toxicologists, microbiologists, chemists, engineers, biostatisticians, pharmacologists, biochemists, and risk analysts. Expert panel members include Drs. Mark Cronin, Andrew Worth, Kannan Krishnan, William Welsh, Andy Maier, Joan Rose, and Syed Hashsham. The workshop also includes scientists within the Agency with expertise in the development and application of QSARs and VFARs. To facilitate discussion at the workshop, a list of charge questions will be made available to the expert panel and the workshop participants.

The workshop will be held at the Hilton Netherland Hotel in Cincinnati, Ohio from June 20 – 21, 2006. To register for this free workshop, contact Jennifer Legge at jennifer.larkin.legge@saic.com.

Contact: Chandrika Moudgal