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