The IBC has developed a new policy titled Use of Replication-Defective Adeno-Associated Viral Vectors in Rodents. This policy addresses the risk of recombinant DNA shed into the bedding of rodents following delivery of recombinant AAV vectors and how that bedding/caging should be handled. Below are the main points from this policy:
- This policy only applies to replication-defective AAV vectors that the IBC has determined can be handled at BSL-1/ABSL-1.
- Cages must be changed by the laboratory staff for the first 72 hours post-administration of AAV vectors.
- Bedding from the first cage change and any additional cage changes taking place in the first 72 hours post AAV vector administration must be disposed of as biohazardous waste.
- It is the responsibility of the PI/researcher to bring the appropriate biohazardous waste bags and secondary medical waste containers to the location where cage changing will take place.
- Following 72 hours post AAV vector administration, the cage change label should be removed and DLAM staff may then take over cage changing responsibility.
- Carcasses and tissues from animals exposed to AAV vectors falling under this policy can be disposed of as nonbiohazardous carcass waste.
- The associated SOP that should be followed is available at https://ucla.app.box.com/v/AnimalAAVSOP.
This policy will also be available at http://rsawa.research.ucla.edu/ibc/ibc-policies-guidance/.
Please contact the IBC Administrative Staff (ibc@research.ucla.edu or 310-794-0262) with any questions and concerns.