Preclinical PET/CT imaging in a biosafety level 3 (BSL-3) biocontainment environment

Objectives Discuss the challenges of performing preclinical nuclear medicine imaging on non-human primates (NHP) within a BSL3 environment and specific instrumentation features necessary to achieve desired results.

Methods BSL3 refers to a set of practices required to safely isolate pathogens with the potential to cause lethal disease via inhalation, such as m. tuberculosis and b. anthracis. In this environment, specialized garb is required to enter the BSL3, including a chemical suit, powered air-purifying respirator, and double nitrile gloves. A prototype primate PET/CT platform was developed consisting of a Siemens microPET F220 and a neuro CT scanner (Neurologica CereTom). The imaging suite has also been outfitted with a hot lab, anesthesia equipment, and vital signs monitors. NHP’s are transported in a custom designed HEPA filtered transport cart to and from the imaging suite and the housing area. NHP’s are catheterized and intubated inside the imaging suite after arrival. After injection of the PET isotope, the NHP is positioned on a custom imaging bed designed to transport the NHP completely through both the PET and CT gantry.

Results BSL3 presents unique challenges compared to a traditional nuclear medicine setting. To date, our facility has completed over 190 scans of non-human primates in the BSL3. We are continuing to adjust and improve our imaging protocols based on scan results.

Conclusions Performing preclinical PET/CT imaging within a BSL3 environment is a new and exciting aspect of nuclear medicine. The environment is challenging yet has the ability to open up a potentially important aspect of molecular imaging, including vaccine research.

Research Support Bill and Melinda Gates Fdn.