University of Florida provides several core facilities for biotechnology research at low cost. Included are:
The Biological Computing Facility (BCF) provides access to 1) the most current versions of the molecular biological and crystallographic databases and 2) a wide selection of programs used to: search the databases for matches to experimental sequences, manipulate and edit DNA and protein sequences, search sequences for interesting features such as restriction sites or alpha helical structures, calculate hydrophobic/hydrophilic stretches in protein sequences, carry out sequence alignment for both protein and DNA sequences, and prepare results for publication. An Evans and Sutherland PS390 graphics workstation is available which allows high resolution 3-dimensional display of crystallographic data. The software associated with this workstation allows "what if" calculations for structural alterations of protein data. The facility is also a BITNET node, giving access to the academic computing networks of the United States and Europe. Faculty may receive program documentation and software through the BCF, including Vax terminal emulation programs.
Using single-or double-stranded DNA (plasmids), or PCR-generated DNA fragments, the technical staff of DSEQ will run the sequence reactions, load them on the gel and run the electrophoresis using an ABI 373a DNA sequencer. Depending on the purity and amount of DNA, about 300-450 nucleotide bases will be provided at the end of a specified turnaround time. A hard copy of the waveforms showing base assignments and advice and information regarding base-calling techniques and sequence alignments, are also available. Sequence data are also provided on user-supplied diskettes.
The DNA Synthesis Core Laboratory (DSYN) provides high quality, custom synthetic oligonucleotide to researchers. Oligos can be any length from 2 to 150, and can include mixed base additions and/or modified bases (if available). Finished oligos are delivered ready to dilute and use three working days. Complete quality control is run on every oligo produced. other services include: DNA purification, and alternate chemistries. The core staff will be happy to answer any questions users might have concerning the synthesis, use, design, purification, and alternate chemistries, or handling of oligonucleotide.
The Electron Microscopy Core Laboratory (EMCL) provides services for the preparation and examination of biological samples for transmission and scanning electron microscopy. This includes conventional preparation, cytochemical and immunocytochemical localizations, whole mount preparations and high resolution scanning microscopy. The laboratory is also available to qualified investigators who wish to perform their own research.
The FCCL provides essential technical expertise and availability of equipment for flow cytometric analysis. The FCCL can perform flow cytometric assays or provide customized training in instrument operation, computer analysis, and associated data management to investigators and/or their staff.
The Hybridoma Core Laboratory (HCL) provides expertise in and equipment resources for hybridoma technology including: immunization of mice, fusions, immunoassay development, hybridoma screening, cloning, isotyping, ascites production, purification of monoclonal antibodies, acquisition and cryopreservation of hybridomas, and assistance with monoclonal antibody applications. The immunological Analysis Core Laboratory which is a part o the BEECS (Biotechnologies for the Ecological and Evolutionary Conservation Sciences) program has staff available to assist with developing immunoassay to detect disease exposure and immune responses in threatened & endangered species.
The Protein Chemistry Core Laboratory (PCCL) provides expertise and equipment for protein microisolation, sequence analysis, peptide synthesis, and production of large peptides utilizing recombinant DNA technology. Training of students, technicians, and scientists in state-of-the-art protein chemistry, and advice in interpretation of results and planning experiments are also available.
The RPECL assists investigators with the production of recombinant proteins using bacterial or yeast host-vector systems. Laboratory staff evaluates t feasibility of the proposed protein expression project and develops an experimental approach. The RPECL makes the necessary expression vector constructions and verifies production of the desired protein.
This core has complete facilities to perform radioimmunoassays, enzyme immonoassays and radioreceptor assays for steroids and proteins as well as facilities for histology and immunocytochemical localization of protein hormones. This laboratory specializes in the development of new assays and non-invasive methods (fecal, urinary and allantoci fluids) useful in obtaini endocrine information (e.g. reproductive cycles, stress level, sex determination) important to ecological and conservation studies. In addition core staff will train researchers in assay methodologies and assist in the development of appropriate sampling, experimental design, and data analysis.
This core is designed to apply molecular technology to studies in ecology, evolution and conservation biology. This facility offers a variety of services,including consultation, project design and development, DNA Sequencing, and training in molecular techniques. The lab is equipped with two automated DNA sequencers and a complete array of support hardware, including a robotics processor for rapid PCR-based sequencing. This core c efficiently and accurately process large numbers of DNA samples (cloned or PCR-amplified products) at modest cost. We also provide extensive support the analysis and interpretation of DNA sequence data. mtDNA sequences are primary methodology used for population and evolutionary studies and DNA fingerprinting assays for pedigree analysis are in development.
This core provides investigators with the means and the training to apply the techniques of contemporary immunology to their research in order to address critical questions in the ecological, evolutionary and conservation sciences. Current research and services include: (1) development of new immunological monitoring techniques and diagnostices, including practical quantitative immunoassays to measure the exposure of free-ranging animal populations to infectious and toxic agents. (2) development of the means to measure immune system function (cell and antibody-medicated in free-ranging vertebrate and invertebrate animal populations, and (3) development of monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies for diverse irnmunophenotyping, irmunoaffinity and immunoscreening applications in both plant and animal systems.
A major goal in ecological research is to define the relationship between environmental contaminants or conditions and disease in free-ranging wildlife. Biomarkers (or biological markers) are indicators signaling injury or stress in biological systems. Molecular biomarkers are particularly useful because they can be biochemically characterized and quantitatively measure using modern biotechnologies. This laboratory provides methodology and experimental design to help researchers discover new molecular biomarkers of disease in samples from a wide variety of wildlife. Its services include: Identification of Protein Blomarkers--Analysis of proteins by 1- and 2-dimensional gel electrophoresis and by Western blot; Characterization of Protein Biomarkers--Determination of amino acid composition and N-terminal sequence and development of techniques for enzymatic and chemical cleavages for fingerprinting and internal sequence determination; Development of Assays for Blomarkers--Design of assays involving immunological, HPLC, and capillary electrophoresis techniques.
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Revised August 1995