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The cytotoxicity test using MTT on HeLa cells (HeLa-MTT) was evaluated as an alternative method to the Draize eye irritation test (Draize test) by six to eight laboratories. The 50% inhibition concentration (EC(50)) for MTT reduction was calculated. A total of thirty-nine test chemicals were examined. The average interlaboratory coefficient of variation (CV) of the present assay was 25%. Comparison of the in vitro test results with those of the Draize test revealed a correlation coefficient of -0.799 between the log(EC(50)) value and the maximum average total score (MAS) for a 10% solution or suspension. The following characteristics of HeLa-MTT have become apparent through this validation: (1) HeLa-MTT could be applied to all substances including water-insoluble substances, esters, a colour additive, and a substance which is known to directly reduce MTT; (2) there is good interlaboratory reproducibility and strong correlation between HeLa-MTT and Draize MAS; (3) results for strong acids, alkanolamines and alcohols (lower mono-ol) clearly deviate from other samples with respect to the correlation between HeLa-MTT and Draize MAS. These results suggest that HeLa-MTT may be useful for predicting the Draize MAS if definite criteria can be established for applicable compounds.

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