Session IV: Animal Exposure Technology for the Detection of Genotoxic Agents

Abstract

In organizing this conference we felt that the first day should be devoted to defining systems and technologies that are available for the measurement of genotoxic effects of airborne agents. This session covers in vivo exposure of animals considering both whole body and nose exposure techniques; techniques for the generation and monitoring of vapors; and finally the question of assessing particulates for mutagenicity. It is presumed that most of the audience have a good background in genetics, but may not necessarily be aware of the technologies associated with the generation and monitoring of aerosols and exposure of animals. The first paper will describe standard inhalation chambers and how they are operated, the build-up and removal of pollutants in chambers, and the function, applicability, advantages and disadvantages of nose exposure systems. The second paper will discuss the methods whereby gas and mixtures of gases are generated and standardized. It will also describe a number of techniques that can be used to monitor the concentration of the test atmospheres. The third paper of this series will address particles. Mutagenic particles usually exist as complex and heterogeneous mixtures of both organic and inorganic compounds.