AB 3130XL

The DNA Facility has two DNA sequencers, the ABI 3130 and the ABI 3730 DNA Analyzers. These instruments are capillary based, use Big Dye chemistries, and run on AB Data Collection software.

The ABI 3130 runs 16 samples simultaneously with sequencing in 2 hours/run and fragment in 45 minutes/run.

The ABI 3730 runs 48 samples simultaneously with sequencing in 2 hours/run and fragment in 45 minutes/run.

Appliedbiosystems The 7900HT Sequence Detector is an interchangeable block thermal cycler with laser fluorescence detection and multiplex capabilities.  Detection in Quantitative PCR (Q-PCR) is possible with either a fluorescently labeled oligonucleotide probe (Taqman) or non-specific DNA binding chemistry (SYBR green). These options all allow you to view data as it amplifies in real time eliminating the need for post-PCR processing.

The Bioanalyzer from Agilent uses microfluidics to run RNA, DNA and protein samples. It is widely used for determining the quality of RNA before running microarray or real-time quantitative pcr experiments. The Bioanalyzer uses a microfluidics-based platform to run proteins, DNA and RNA. The individual samples are analyzed and a pseudo gel image is created and bands are sized and quantified.

The Biomek FX is a 96-head that pipettes all 96 in unison with 21 available deck spaces, an orbital shaker, temperature control of a plate, and vacuum manifold. The FX can pipette 96-well and 384-well plates.

The Biomek NX is a span-8 that uses 8 independent probes for pipetting ,with 12 available deck spaces, an orbital shaker, temperature control of a plate, and vacuum manifold. The NX can pipette in test tubes, microfuge tubes troughs, and 96 well plates.

For imaging Western blots or protein gels the Odyssey by LiCor is a great choice. The Odyssey detects IR dyes that allow it to be more quantitative and sensitive than other methods.

The BioRad Molecular Imager FX Plus Pro, that can be used for phosphor or fluor imaging. For phosphor imaging it indirectly measures a radioactive signal from a gel or membrane. Samples are exposed to a phosphor screen and the excited state of the phosphor is read by a laser. With fluor imaging gels, membranes, TLC plates, and microtiter plates can be scanned directly. Filters are used to distinguish between fluorescent dyes and more than one dye can be seen in a sample.

The Mithras operates with dedicated optical paths to ensure the best available performance for each technology based on luminescent and fluorescent readout including homogeneous BRET and FRET assays.

The mixer mills are designed for dry, wet, and cryogenic grinding of small amounts of sample from 0.2 ml to 20 ml.  They mix and homogenize powders and suspensions in only a few seconds.  The disrupted biological cells can be used for protein, DNA or RNA extractions.

The NanoDrop is a cuvette free spectrophotometer. It uses just 1 microleter to measure from 5 ng/ul to 3,000 ng/ul. This is a free service. The Nanodrop has greatly improved our sequencing success rates and our ability to troubleshoot problems more effectively.

Direct infrared fluorescence detection on the Odyssey Imaging System quantifies low-abundance proteins that chemiluminescence can’t.  Infrared detection effectively eliminates background fluorescence, resulting in clear sharp bands.  The linear range has been reported to be 0.6 pg to 2.5 ng.

The Beckman MW 96/384 Micorplate washer is a fully automated, programmable microplate washer capable of washing 96-well microplates using an 8-needle manifold or 384-well microplates using a 16-needle manifold. In addition to a rinse liquid and waste container, the Microplate Washer can be operated with up to three different wash solutions connected to the instrument.