OECD 424/OCSPP 870.6200: Neurotoxicity study (rodents)

The Neurotoxicity Study is used to gain information on the potential neurotoxicity of chemicals in adult animals. The test chemical (in a range of doses) is administered orally to several groups of laboratory rodents. When conducted as a separate study, at least 20 animals (10 females and 10 males) should be used in each dose. Dose levels are selected by considering previous toxicity and kinetic data available for the chemical. The dosing regimen may be 28 days, subchronic (90 days) or chronic (one year or longer).

The animals are tested for the detection or the characterization of behavioral and/or neurological abnormalities. The results of this study include measurements (weight, food and water consumption), functional tests, and daily observations (ophthalmology, hematology, clinical biochemistry and histopathology). At the end of the study, at least five males and five females are perfused in situ for detailed neurohistopathology examination.