Toxicology and Teratology Research Using ALZET^® Osmotic Pumps

Toxicology

When assessing risk, an understanding of the involved toxicologic mechanisms can be helpful. Areas of recent interest include research on the interplay between immunology and toxicology, the neurotoxicity of a variety of compounds, and research on the process of apoptosis. Controlled, continuous delivery of test agents using ALZET osmotic pumps has proven useful in these areas of research.

Examples of recent work in these and related areas are included in a general list of references on toxicology research. Cell proliferation labeling affords insight into the potential carcinogenesis resulting from exposure to toxic agents. A well proven and reliable technique involves the continuous infusion of bromodeoxyuridine. Continuous exposure to the labeling agent is likely to capture a summation of cell proliferation activity over several days, and can reduce the likelihood of overlooking bursts of proliferation.

Teratology

The ability to infuse agents continuously to pregnant animals can provide insight into a myriad of teratologic effects. ALZET pumps have been used to infuse valproic acid, drugs of abuse, and a variety of agents under teratologic investigation.

A list of references is available on teratology research. A wealth of information regarding the use of ALZET osmotic pumps in toxicology and teratology research can be found in this bibliography section.

Some of these bibliographies may be large and take a short while to display. These bibliographies are updated frequently. As the references are listed most recent first, you may wish to truncate your printing to ten pages or less.

Antibiotics

Antioxidants

Measuring Cell Proliferation In Vivo (continuous BrdU or ³H-thymidine labeling)

Cocaine

Cytokines

Epinephrine

Growth Factors

Injection-Infusion Comparisons (studies which compare the effects of drugs when given by injection and infusion)

Immunosuppressants

Nicotine

Opioids and Opiate Peptides

If you are interested in a specific agent and did not find it listed above, check the index by Agent Administered.