Tox21 researchers work on a variety of different assays.
Nomination
Researchers from academia, private institutions and government/non-government organizations may nominate assays.
Review
The Tox21 Pathways/Assays Working Group (with representatives from each of the Tox21 partners) reviews submitted assays on an ongoing basis. Tox21 leadership provides final approval. Assays are selected based on their biological and toxicological relevance and adaptability to miniaturization and qHTS screening.
Optimization and Miniaturization
Tox21 staff optimize and miniaturize selected assays into the qHTS screening platform.
Validation and Screening
In robotic online validation, the assay is screened in triplicate against a validation library. Tox21 experts evaluate validation data for reproducibility and positive control consistency before submission to the Pathways/Assays Working Group for approval.
Data Analysis and Dissemination
Tox21 staff analyze the resulting information and send raw data and/or summary tables to Tox21 partners on a regular basis. All results are made publicly available.
