Lab looks into expansion of biodetection capabilities
The Laboratory is exploring the possibility of adding new facilities
to expand its role in the area of biological science and biodetection.
"Experiments on a wider array of microorganisms will not only help
the Lab further develop much-needed biodetection capabilities, but learn
more about emerging diseases," said Page Stoutland, R Division deputy
director. Stoutland is leading a cross-Laboratory team on the project.
The new laboratories would be designed to operate as a biosafety level
three facility. LLNL has operated biosafety level one and two facilities
on site for many years. Adding more labs would allow Lab scientists to
build upon existing DNA signature work for anthrax and plague, as well
as the study of additional bioagents such as Valley Fever and Tularemia.
The need for increased biodetection capabilities is a result of the terrorist
attacks of Sept. 11. DNA signature work has led to Lab technologies such
as the Handheld Advanced Nuclei Acid Analyzer (HANAA) and the Autonomous
Pathogen Detection System (APDS), both of which can be used to rapidly
and accurately test for various airborne pathogens. The expanded facilities
would not only allow Lab researchers to continue their work with DNA signatures,
but to more accurately test engineering prototypes such as APDS and HANAA.|
The project team is still exploring a number of design ideas — including
the remodel of current labs or a new building. It is thought that the
new facility would be approximately 1,000 square feet and contain three
laboratories.