Biomaterials for mediation of chemical and biological warfare agents

Annu Rev Biomed Eng. 2003:5:1-27. doi: 10.1146/annurev.bioeng.5.121202.125602. Epub 2003 Apr 10.

Abstract

Recent events have emphasized the threat from chemical and biological warfare agents. Within the efforts to counter this threat, the biocatalytic destruction and sensing of chemical and biological weapons has become an important area of focus. The specificity and high catalytic rates of biological catalysts make them appropriate for decommissioning nerve agent stockpiles, counteracting nerve agent attacks, and remediation of organophosphate spills. A number of materials have been prepared containing enzymes for the destruction of and protection against organophosphate nerve agents and biological warfare agents. This review discusses the major chemical and biological warfare agents, decontamination methods, and biomaterials that have potential for the preparation of decontamination wipes, gas filters, column packings, protective wear, and self-decontaminating paints and coatings.

Publication types

  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Biocompatible Materials / metabolism*
  • Biodegradation, Environmental*
  • Biological Warfare*
  • Bioterrorism*
  • Chemical Warfare Agents / metabolism*
  • Chemical Warfare*
  • Decontamination / instrumentation
  • Decontamination / methods*
  • Protective Devices

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Chemical Warfare Agents