A new nonanimal test for detecting eye irritants in products

IVD EIT a Nonanimal Kit and Service for the Detection of Ocular Irritants: Phase II

NIH-funded research Lebrun Labs, LLC · NIH-11076992

This study is working on a new way to test if products are safe for your eyes without using animals, so that both consumers and manufacturers can know how irritating a product might be.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLebrun Labs, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Anaheim, United States)
Project IDNIH-11076992 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a nonanimal testing method to evaluate the safety of consumer products regarding eye irritation. Currently, the Draize test, which uses live rabbits, is the standard for assessing ocular damage, but new regulations are pushing for alternatives. The proposed in vitro depth of injury eye irritation test (IVD EIT) aims to accurately classify all levels of ocular irritants with improved sensitivity and specificity. By advancing this method, the research seeks to provide a reliable way to inform consumers and manufacturers about product safety without using animals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals concerned about the safety of consumer products that may cause eye irritation.

Not a fit: Patients who are not concerned about product safety or do not use consumer products that could cause eye irritation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer consumer products and eliminate the need for animal testing in ocular irritation assessments.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in developing nonanimal testing methods, but this specific approach is novel and aims to address critical gaps in current testing capabilities.

Where this research is happening

Anaheim, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.