Towards a pragmatic alternative testing strategy for the detection of reproductive toxicants.

In spite of extensive research in the area over many decades, there is still a shortage of accepted alternative testing methods in reproductive toxicology. Of the variety of alternative methods developed for reproductive toxicity testing not a single one has reached regulatory acceptance. Although various standardized tests have been described, their predictability and applicability domains have so far not satisfactorily been defined. In the near future this situation will only change if new approaches are explored. Current regulatory needs in combination with technological innovations set the scene for rapid progress in this area.