Best practices in mycobacterial research laboratories

Abstract

Research on Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB), the bacterium causing tuberculosis (TB), has seen a significant increase in the last decade. Advances in molecular biology techniques now provide scientists with a plethora of approaches to investigate bacterial pathogenesis in the laboratory and in animal models. Here we outline some good laboratory practices for working with MTB in a research setting. The risk of bacterial transmission via aerosols or through accidental exposure requires that we implement rigorous practices to mitigate this risk. Most laboratory research on MTB is performed in specialized laboratories at biological safety level 3. We discuss primary and secondary barriers to MTB exposure (infection), controls that reduce the risk of exposure to the bacterium during experimental manipulation, provide guidelines for the prudent use of biosafety cabinets and personal protective equipment, and present examples of standard operating protocols, including setup of biosafety cabinets, waste management practices, equipment use, management of spills, occupational health programs, and facility decontamination.