Novel TDP-43 stress reporter models to accelerate drug development in ALS.

The development of therapies to combat neurodegenerative diseases is widely recognized as a research priority. Despite recent advances in understanding their molecular basis, there is a lack of suitable early biomarkers to test selected compounds and accelerate their translation to clinical trials. We have investigated the utility of reporters of cytoprotective pathways (e.

Potential of stress reporter models to reduce animal use and provide mechanistic insights in toxicity studies.

Chemical risk assessment ensures protection from the toxic effects of drugs and manmade chemicals. To comply with regulatory guidance, studies in complex organisms are required, as well as mechanistic studies to establish the relevance of any toxicities observed to man. Although toxicity models are improving, studies remain central to this process.