Effects of Sulfate Aerosols Upon Cardiopulmonary Function in Squirrel Monkeys. Third Year Report: Effects of Nitrate and/or Sulfate Aerosols Upon Cardiopulmonary Function

摘要

A method has been developed for generation and monitoring of water-soluble aerosol substances and their toxicological evaluation in the squirrel monkey (Saimiri sciureus). The technique serves for toxicity screening of aerosols considered representative of ambient sulfate or nitrate pollution, prior to experimental exposures of human volunteers. Total respiratory resistance is measured in the unanesthetized monkey by applying forced oscillations at the nose and mouth, using a specially developed padded mask which allows the aerosol to be administered during the measurement. Animals are exposed to concentrations of aerosol 10-25 times higher than concentrations (predicted maximum ambient levels) intended for human exposure. Absence of any severe or persistent change in resistance in a group of exposed monkeys is considered evidence in favor of the safety of human exposures. To validate the monkey resistance measurement, graded exposures to a known respiratory irritant, sulfur dioxide, were conducted and a regular dose-response relationship demonstrated.