Biomedical Research Unit and Laboratory Animal Centre (BRULAC)

Biomedical Research Unit and Lab Animal Centre (BRULAC), at Saveetha Dental College & Hospital, was commissioned in January 2006. The facility is registered and licensed by CPCSEA, Government of India, to conduct experiment on small animal models (Registration No:- 856/PO/Re/S/04/CPCSEA). The built space of 2500 square feet compactly houses separate quarantine and experimental sections for Rats, Mouse and Rabbits. BRULAC supports extensive preclinical research support to diverse disciplines including Dental, Medical and Life sciences. In addition to research, our facility also supports teaching and training to Students and Researchers at SIMATS and also to other external members from various institutions.

BRULAC hosts a dedicated veterinarian to ascertain the health condition of the housed experimental animals through periodical monitoring. Ancillary staffs at the centre also ensures proper sanitation and other regulatory policies.

We also support internships, externships for students and researchers from various educational institutions to train and enlighten them with the importance of animal models in biomedical research.

A laboratory with essential equipments and accessories are available to users conducting experiments on animals. In-house autoclaving system is maintained to sterilize the feed and bedding daily and surgical instruments and linen periodically.

Trained manpower belonging to a multidisciplinary research group is always available to carry out the routine work. They are also trained to help other investigators during the research projects.

Activities

BRULAC is actively involved in bridging the basic research and clinical research by facilitating the process of “Bench to Bedside”. The activities of BRULAC includes:

1. Training students, faculties and researchers on animal experimentation

2. Conducting IAEC meetings and Workshops

3. Mentoring IAEC approved animal studies

4. Maintaining records on animal experimentation as per the statutory requirement of CPCSEA.

Major Research Areas Supported

Highlights

• Integrated unit with Dental Hospital and Basic Medical Sciences Departments

• Excellent infrastructure supporting pre and post animal experimentation studies

• Multidisciplinary team of researchers from wide range of disciplines extending mentoring support to projects at BRULAC

• Collaborations with Academia and Industries

Waste disposal

The bio-waste disposal procedure is followed as per CPCSEA guidelines. A record of animal disposal and the manner of disposal is kept as a matter of routine. Monitoring of sanitation practices is periodically done to the process and materials being cleaned. The caretaker and sanitation workers at BRULAC ensures visual inspection of the materials and maintains a clean and safe working area.