Research Category:

FY: 2005 Funding (in dollars): 117,000

Responsible Organization: AIR FORCE RESEARCH LAB/WRIGHT PATTERSON
Primary Contact: See Responsible Organization Information
City: Wright-Patterson AFB
State: OH
Zip: 45433-7902

Keywords: LABORATORY ANIMALS CAPSAICIN IRRITATION EYE OCULAR

Objective: The purpose of this study is to determine and evaluate the reaction of a protein as an antidote following capsaicin exposure of the rabbit eye. The hypothesis is that the protein will reverse capsaicin-induced irritation symptoms. The evaluation includes gathering time-dependent and concentration-dependent data and results. Questions related to effectiveness of single vs. multiple applications, impact of manufacturer/lot number on the potency of the protein, and effectiveness of the protein used prior to capsaicin exposure need to be investigated for a thorough evaluation process.

Approach: Capsaicin is the irritating agent in pepper spray. Capsaicin is obtained from oleoresin capsicum found in red peppers. Capsaicin causes irritation of the eye. Pepper spray is a non-lethal weapon but its use is limited due to the potential for irritation to the personnel using it. The purpose of this study is to test a protein compound that appears to prevent and reverse eye irritation caused by capsaicin. The use of the protein compound in this manner is protected under a signed non-disclosure agreement between the Air Force and an outside third party. The study will look at exposures of the rabbit eye, the model for eye irritation in toxicology. The study includes a series of phases designed to examine time and concentration issues for both the protein and the capsaicin. The first phase tests the protein by itself to ensure that it will not cause any irritation to rabbit eyes either in a single or repeated application. Additional phases will confirm the amount of capsaicin that produces a mild irritation (phase 2) and the optimum amount of the protein that prevents the irritation (phase 3). Other issues are whether anesthesia effects eye irritation response (also phase 3), the source of the protein on the effectiveness to block irritation (phase 4), the effects of multiple exposures to both the capsaicin and protein compound (phase 5) and whether the protein can be administered prior to the capsaicin and still be effective (phase 6). One eye of each rabbit will be exposed and the other eye will serve as the control eye for comparison of effect.