Animal Resource Center for Infectious Diseases

A key area of microbial disease research is the analysis of the interactions between the host and pathogenic organisms. Such microbiological and immunological research is greatly facilitated by animal models, particularly since molecular biological and biotechnological methods now allow the generation of genetically manipulated mice that can aid our understanding of the mechanisms of infection. These experiments require that experimentally infected animals are managed in a suitable, safe and controlled fashion. The Animal Resource Center for Infectious Diseases is a unique facility that was established in 1967 to meet these requirements. The center is separated into three areas: one for animal experimentation with microbial disease models (P2 and P3 level) and an SPF area. The microbial disease model animal experimentation section is completely air-conditioned and maintained at a negative air pressure to minimize the risk of contamination. Each sub-area in the microbial disease model animal experimentation section has an individual pass-through type of autoclave to sterilize all materials before they are removed. Moreover, the exhaust air is filtered to prevent the exterior dissemination of pathogenic microbes. These measures ensure that microbial disease model animals are handled safely without accidental cross-contamination.
Before gaining access to this restricted facility, researchers are required to take an official orientation tour and submit a research plan for committee review. The condition of the animals is inspected regularly.
The facility offers services such as the generation of genetically manipulated animals, in vitro fertilization, and the cryopreservation of mouse strains (Table １).

Figure 1: Biosafety level 3 room (Building A, 1st floor)
This is the room where disease model animal experimentation occurs under biosafety level 3 conditions. Hemorrhagic fever with renal syndrome-causing virus (HFRSV) was first isolated in this area. In addition, animal experiments for Creutzfeldt-Jakob Disease (CJD), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) can be performed in this facility.

Table 1) No. of mouse lines produced/preserved at the facility. (TG, transgenic ; KO, knock-out)