Rodent aBSL3 Core

Rodent aBSL3 Core

Don Forthal, UC Irvine

Abstract:
The purpose of the Rodent animal Biosafety Level 3 (aBSL3) Core is to provide investigators with the opportunity to advance research in bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases through the use of a fully operational rodent facility on a recharge basis. It serves as a critical regional resource to develop and test vaccines and other prevention strategies, to evaluate the efficacy and toxicity of therapeutic agents, to develop diagnostics, and to explore pathogenesis. The Rodent aBSL3 Core sets out to accomplish two specific aims: (1) to maintain an infrastructure to ensure the availability of a regional aBSL3 facility for use by investigators in academia and industry; and (2) to establish and maintain a small animal aerosol challenge unit in the aBSL3 facility.

Rodent aBSL3 Core capabilities:

• State of the-art, fully certified rodent aBSL3 facility for research on Category A, B and C pathogens, including those designated as select agents
• Space available for non-animal work with select agents
• Aerosol challenge chamber for inhalation studies
• Trained, in-house personnel available to conduct experiments
  

  Research projects may involve collaborations, partnerships or contract work. The facility is available to scientists both in academic and corporate settings.

  Contact information:

  • Gary Landucci, Laboratory Manager
  • 949-824-4612
  • g.landucci@uci.edu