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Scientists from the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) will present new research at the joint meeting of the Immunotoxicology and Chemical Allergy Specialty Section (ITCASS) and the European Research Group on Experimental Contact Dermatitis (ERGECD), taking place April 15–17, 2026.

Isabelle Lee, PhD, Manager, Human Health Science & Strategy, will present an analysis of the performance of the GARDskin dose response assay when applied to natural complex substances (NCS). These materials are widely recognized as difficult to evaluate, making them an important test case for New Approach Methodologies (NAMs), animal-free methods used to assess safety. Her presentation focuses on how effectively the assay can characterize both hazard and potency based on preliminary findings. RIFM does not conduct animal studies for any of its human health endpoints. Dr. Lee noted, “These materials are considered difficult to test, so it’s important to evaluate how well NAMs can assess both hazard and potency.”

Isabella Schember, PhD, Scientist, Dermatotoxicology, will present work evaluating the SARA-ICE defined approach for predicting points of departure (PoDs) for skin sensitization. This approach integrates in vitro (laboratory-based) data. Preliminary results from fragrance ingredients show strong concordance with reference PoDs and generally conservative predictions, supporting SARA-ICE as a tool for quantitative risk assessment. Dr. Schember said, “Preliminary results from fragrance ingredients demonstrate strong concordance with reference PoDs, with generally conservative predictions.”

These presentations reflect continued work within RIFM to evaluate and apply integrated, non-animal methodologies to skin sensitization assessment.