Acquisition of Automated DNA Sequencer

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Field Museum requests funds to purchase an automated DNA sequencer, the Applied Biosystems 373A, for its Biochemistry Laboratories, a core facility that provides opportunities for Field Museum staff and students to use gene amplification (PCR) and DNA sequencing in basic research and research training in systematics. Examination of the levels and patterns of Lab use indicate why this instrument is needed. The Biochemistry Laboratories, which are undergoing NSF funded renovation in 1994, are heavily used: 10 curatorial staff and research associates independently have used the facilities, and at six of these research staff are now pursuing or planning major DNA sequencing projects in the near future. The effect of this increasing demand on the facilities and the concomitant establishing of reliable protocols in the preceding steps (DNA extraction, PCR, and amplicon purification), is that sequencing and base calling have now become the primary factors limiting the Labs' productivity. Productivity and cost analyses support the contention that acquisition of the 373A will result in: 1) greater lab productivity; 2) an increase in lab capacity by freeing otherwise dedicated lab space; and 3) a cost savings of about 40% per sequencing reaction. The latter will allow the Labs to recoup purchase costs iTI less than three years at present productivity levels. The Applied Biosystems 373A has several advantages over competing instruments, including: 1) a 4-dye fluorescent-labeling system that enables running up to 4 times as many samples per PAGE gel; and 2) patented dye-labeled dideoxynucleotide terminators that permit use of unlabeled oligonucleotide primers in both ~q cycle sequencing and Sequenase formats. Ability to use unlabeled primers offers an economy and versatility for Field Museum projects, as sequencing is entirely from PCR products amplified from a myriad of plant, fungi, and animal sources. Field Museum has well-developed training pro grams at all levels. Scientific staff have adjunct appointments at neighboring institutions (e.g., U. of Chicago and U. of Illinois, Chicago) and offer graduate training in systematics through these institutions. These students generally use the Labs for their graduate research projects. Finally, the Laboratories are an active participant in Field Museum's summer intern program, which targets high school and undergraduate students, especially those representing minority groups. llhe Labs' capacity will be significantly augmented by the acquisition of this instrument, providing additional opportunities for students to gain research experience in systematics. NSF FORM 135~ (1194) A--1