CINJ - Functional Genomics Facility

Personnel:

Director:    Dr. Helmut Zarbl

Facility Manager:    Curtis Krier

Genome Scientist:    Emmanuel Zachariah, Ph.D.

 

Microarray technology allows researchers to monitor the interactions of thousands of genes simultaneously in a single experiment.  In general, DNA “chips” are fabricated by using photolithographic techniques or high-speed, high-precision robotics to deposit minute quantities of target DNA (usually oligomers or PCR amplified cDNA transcripts) onto treated slides, producing arrays capable of monitoring entire genomes.  Labeled cRNA probes with known identity are used to hybridize to the chip, followed by scanning.  In this way, it is possible to monitor massive parallel gene expression.

The CINJ – Transcriptional Profiling Facility provides instrumentation and expertise for RNA transcript profiling and was established so that the CINJ community could utilize this technology and apply it to a wide spectrum of biomedical research including gene discovery, disease diagnosis, drug discovery and toxicological research.  Our facility currently offers two different platforms for microarray analysis:  The Affymetrix GeneChip system utilizes commercially produced arrays to provide whole genome expression analyses.  In addition, we offer a glass array service which enables researchers to focus their research efforts on specific subsets of genes.  Our goal is to offer a range of cost and performance options to address a variety of experimental questions.

Members of the CINJ are invited to utilize this technology as part of their genomic research efforts.