Laboratory animals are contributors behind a lot of medical research. For the better development of biomedical research and pre-clinical animal testing, National Laboratory Animal Center (NLAC) of NARLabs provides resources such as lab animal supplies, multi-technical services, and educational training sessions. Moreover, to make the public more exposed to science, the center has gone to great lengths to popularize scientific knowledge in all fields. As of March 26, Special Exhibition “As if by Magic—Isolation Bubbles” takes place at the Digital Art Center, which is on the second floor of the National Library of Public Information (NLPI), Taichung City. With captioned pictures, easy-to-understand videos, and real isolation bubbles on display, the public, also having access to practical operation of the bubble, will realize how this magical space is applied to biotechnological research on germ-free mice.

Bacteria, viruses, and fungi are everywhere in our living environment, and even in our gut exist trillions of these microorganisms. They can be villainous pathogens, beneficial probiotics, or cut both ways like double agents. Though invisible to the naked eye, they coexist and interact with us at all times, helping regulate our metabolism, immune system, emotions and overall health. It is scientifically proven that they are associated with neurocognitive disorders, cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders, and even therapies for diseases.

To research gut microbiota, NLAC installs a transparent bubble-like operating system in the space where animals are raised, and this system is what we call an “isolation bubble,” which is equipped with a separate air circulation system that prevents cross-infections during the research on animals fed with one single bacterium or the known microbiota, based on a germ-free animal model. It is like a “big magic box” that encloses laboratory animals. Isolation bubbles are not only used for research purposes but also installed in hospitals and the customs as spaces for quarantine.

It takes long-term training to acquire skills to operate isolation bubbles. In addition to being acquainted with the rigorous procedures for establishing and maintaining the level of microorganisms, researchers should also skillfully maneuver the gloves connected to the bubble, feeding animals, changing cages, and even carrying out experiments. It is no easy task.

At the exhibition venue of the National Library of Public Information, the public can not only observe real isolation bubbles used for special microbiota animal testing up close and personal, but also get a taste of operating them through the gloves. This special exhibition is held together with a book fair and an e-book fair (https://ebook.nlpi.edu.tw), providing the public with a channel for acquiring scientific knowledge. Welcome people of all ages to NLPI to explore this magical space!


As if by Magic—Isolation Bubbles
Date: 26 March 2024–30 June 2024
Venue: Digital Art Center (2F), National Library of Public Information
Address: No.100, Wuquan S. Rd., South Dist., Taichung City