Abstract
Allergen exposure chambers (AEC) provide controlled allergen exposure to
allergic subjects for the clinical study of asthma and allergy. They
should ideally mimic natural allergen exposure, and provide better
control of allergen exposure than possible in field studies. For AEC
exposure to cat allergens, typically, either liquid allergen extract is
nebulized, or natural cat hair and dander are aerosolized by shaking cat
bedding. While bedding shaking is more naturalistic than liquid extract
exposure, it results in high variability of allergen levels. We have
developed an automated method of natural dander dispersal that uses
robotic vacuum cleaners with filters removed and modified for variable
suction. The system was validated in two rooms (14.4 m3 and 36.7 m3)
where two cats reside. The vacuums aerosolize aspirated dander that has
naturally accumulated on the floor. Dispersion was characterized by
measured airborne allergen (Fel d 1) and particle sizes and
concentrations in time and space during 1 and 2-hour tests. At optimized
parameters, Fel d 1 was found to be stable in time (2 hours), and
homogenous throughout the rooms. Average Fel d 1 was 55 (±9 SD) ng/m3 in
the smaller room and 79 (±30 SD) ng/m3 in the larger room, which are
comparable to exposure in homes with cats. This novel method of dander
dispersal provides controlled, safe exposure to cat allergens in a
clinical setting, while maintaining the naturalistic advantages of a
field exposure.