Single Cell RNA Sequencing (scRNA-seq) Instrumentation

项目总结

PROJECT SUMMARY We propose to acquire a benchtop cell sorter which will be paired with a cell partitioner in order to establish a single cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) sample preparation instrument This shared instrumentation provides maximum flexibility for investigators and will be the only instrument of its kind on the University of Arkansas (U of A) campus and Northwest Arkansas area. The instrument will be housed within the Engineering Research Center, a facility with the infrastructure and personnel necessary to support its operation. In support of this effort, a cohort of 6 Major and 12 Minor Users have been identified that represent the largest individual needs for single cell analysis capabilities at the U of A. These users represent a mix of established and early-career investigators and reflect the dynamic and growing need for single cell analysis. Together, the Major and Minor users hold grants from the NIH (10), NSF (4), USDA (2) and State sources (2) and are projected to comprise approximately 85% of the instrument’s Accessible User Time (AUT) in the first year of operation. Additional usage is anticipated from additional pilot project users with less substantial (<1% AUT), but still meaningful, scRNA-seq requirements. The proposed instrument will be part of a vibrant ecosystem of resources at the U of A. Together, these resources will ensure the successful deployment of the scRNA-seq instrument and maximize its usage by the U of A research community. This shared resource will enjoy significant financial and administrative support and receive strategic guidance from the Advisory Board. The instrument will be used to advance numerous projects related to cancer, wound healing, aging, diabetes, inflammation, neuroscience, and food safety. The scRNA-seq instrument proposed here will have an immediate and lasting impact on research productivity at the U of A, allowing users to design more robust experiments, make more efficient use of grant dollars, and conduct the best science possible, benefits that are consistent with the University’s commitment to growing its biomedical research endeavor.