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A simple and inexpensive method for maintaining a defined flora mouse colony
Abstract:
The use of autoclaved cages, feed, bedding, water, and filter caps combined with aseptic techniques of animal husbandry in an existing mouse colony was ineffective in maintaining a defined flora colony. The addition of a laminar air flow bench equipped with a high efficiency particulate air filter provided a sterile environment in which to manipulate mice when the filter caps were removed. The installation of a duct to direct all air entering the room through the bench filter reduced the airborne bacterial counts in the room. This modification combined with the culling or marking of infected cages so that no future breeders would be taken from these cages eliminated a number of bacterial contaminants (Staphylococcus aureus, S epidermidis, and streptococci) from the colony.
Insights
Maintaining a defined flora mouse colony proved challenging with standard autoclaving and aseptic techniques alone. Enhancements including laminar airflow benches and HEPA filtration significantly reduced airborne bacteria and eliminated specific contaminants.
Area of Science:
- Microbiology
- Animal Husbandry
- Infectious Disease Control
Background:
- Standard autoclaving and aseptic techniques were insufficient for maintaining a defined flora mouse colony.
- Bacterial contamination posed a significant challenge to colony integrity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify effective methods for maintaining a defined flora mouse colony.
- To reduce bacterial contamination in an existing mouse colony.
Main Methods:
- Implemented a laminar airflow bench with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter for sterile manipulation.
- Installed ducting to filter all room air through the HEPA filter.
- Culling or marking infected cages to prevent breeding from contaminated sources.
Main Results:
- The combined methods significantly reduced airborne bacterial counts within the animal room.
- Specific bacterial contaminants, including Staphylococcus aureus, S. epidermidis, and streptococci, were eliminated from the colony.
- The interventions were effective in establishing and maintaining a defined flora colony.
Conclusions:
- A combination of enhanced environmental controls and selective breeding practices is crucial for maintaining defined flora mouse colonies.
- HEPA filtration and sterile manipulation environments are key to reducing airborne microbial load.
- Targeted elimination of contaminated sources is essential for eradicating specific bacterial pathogens.