The proposed research will test the feasibility of using inexpensive polymeric membranes to serve as passive contaminant barriers for laboratory animals. Theoretical calculations show that the flux of animal respiratory gases through polymeric membranes can be more than sufficient to support life for animals in hermetically sealed environments. These membranes could be used to protect animals from airborne pathogens while permitting the rapid passage of atmospheric gases necessary for respiration. Besides protecting animals from extraneous contamination, they can be used to protect laboratory personnel from allergens and infectious agents. Membranes, supported on porous substrates should be useful for animal containment systems in research, breeding, housing, and shipping of research animals throughout the United States. The resulting technology will provide an economical means to control environmental variables encountered in animal housing. Research will focus on developing an optimal membrane/support combination. Membrane/support combinations will then be tested for gas exchange with live animals and for barrier effectiveness in microbial challenges.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Center for Research Resources (NCRR)
Type
Small Business Innovation Research Grants (SBIR) - Phase II (R44)
Project #
5R44RR005077-03
Application #
2282968
Study Section
Animal Resources Review Committee (AR)
Project Start
1990-09-30
Project End
1992-09-29
Budget Start
1991-09-30
Budget End
1992-09-29
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1991
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Horizon Micro-Environments
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Watkinsville
State
GA
Country
United States
Zip Code
30677