Germfree Life And Gnotobiology

Germfree Life and Gnotobiology focuses on the theory and general aspects of germfree research and gnotobiology. Using a phylogenetic approach, the book provides a summary of germfree work in all phyla, from bacteria and viruses to protozoans and invertebrates. It characterizes germfree vertebrates based on data on morphology, biochemistry, nutrition, serology, and physiology. This book is organized into six chapters and begins with an overview of germfree life and gnotobiology, including biological isolation as the basis of germfree life, germfree conditions in nature, and the biological significance of germfree research. A section is devoted to nomenclature and terminology. The chapters on methods and nutrition are sufficiently detailed to serve as guides for experimental work. The book concludes with a chapter on exploratory research that explores the inoculation of germfree animals with known kinds of microorganisms. Terms have been introduced to describe concepts and provide precise communication. This book is a valuable source of information for scientists and researchers engaged in germfree research as a biological tool.

Preface

Acknowledgments

1 Theory and General Aspects of Germfree Life and Gnotobiology

Biological Isolation as the Basis of Germfree Life

Germfree Conditions in Nature

Essential Elements in Germfree Research

Biological Significance of Germfree Research

Relationship to Other Enclosed Systems

Gnotobiology

Nomenclature and Terminology

Summary

2 Phylogenetic Development of Germfree Research

Early Concepts

Sterile Plants

Germfree Culture of Tissues

Germfree Invertebrates

Germfree Vertebrates

Summary

3 Germfree Animal Techniques

Cages

Sterilization

Obtaining Germfree Animals

Microbial Testing

Summary of Methods

Production, Maintenance, and Repair Problems

Decontamination

Summary

4 Nutrition of Germfree Animals

General Considerations

Intestinal Synthesis Theory

Diet and Microorganisms

Diet Changes during Sterilization

The First Colony of Germfree Mammals

Diets and Feeding

Nutritional Requirements

Summary

5 Characteristics of Germfree Animals

Introduction

General Characteristics

Systems, Organs, and Tissues

Defense Mechanisms

Abnormalities in Form and Function

Reparative Processes

Summary

6 Gnotophoric Animals

Introduction

Methods

Bacteria-Host Gnotobiotes

Virus-Host Gnotobiotes

Protozoa-Host Gnotobiotes

Invertebrate-Host Gnotobiotes

Conventionalization

Summary

References

Appendices

I. Chronology

II. Glossary

III. Diets for Germfree Animals

Index