Phototoxicology and photocarcinogenesis at the US Food and Drug Administration's National Center for Toxicological Research

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) causes skin cancer in humans and can induce skin cancer in test animals. The interaction of UVR with many drugs has been reported, however, there is a paucity of data concerning the carcinogenesis of cosmetic ingredients and environmental contaminants in combination with UVR. A research center has been developed at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration's National Center for Toxicological Research to quantify the potential carcinogenicity of combined exposure to chemicals and UVR. The chemicals tested in this facility are nominated to, and approved by, the National Toxicology Program. In this paper we describe the nomination of chemicals, test animals, source of UVR, dosimetry, and test paradigm that are used. This unique test facility is being used to protect public health through quantifying the photocarcinogenicity of chemicals to which the public is exposed.