University of Utah Core Vision Research Grant

项目总结

Project Summary The OVERALL aims of this Vision Research Core (VRC) are to provide: • access to resources outside the scope of individual PIs and their R01 awards • access to technical expertise outside the scope a single laboratory • staff training to remove barriers to efficient translational research and collaboration • collaboration initiatives among VRC labs The research areas supported by the VRC span the analysis and treatments of retinal degenerations, developmental disorders, glaucoma and other disorders, as well as a range of cutting-edge basic science initiatives. We have implemented four resource modules that continue the natural evolution of how this research group works together, serving 17 investigators holding 22 NEI R01 awards. The Imaging Module provides a range of imaging (TEM, confocal, scanning optical) and computing services (imaging, database, mathematics) based on strengths of core laboratories and the tradition of excellence of the UU School of Computing, whose descendants founded Adobe Systems, Silicon Graphics, Netscape and Pixar. Collaborations among these groups have transformed software tools for TEM and confocal imaging. The Cell Biology Module derives from the strengths in mouse genetics at the Moran Eye Center and the high demand for tissue profiling. Almost every JMEC laboratory has need of high quality cryosectioning, paratoming, mouse genotyping, immunostaining training, immunocytochemistry, quantitative PCR, in-situ hybridization technologies. . The Physiology Module is a powerful set of tools that VRC faculty use for animal model validation and disease profiling: ERG set-ups (LKC Big Shot and an older LKC setup), multi-focal ERG (Phoenix), in vivo / in vitro 2-photon imaging, OptoMotry and Rotarod behavioral testing, and a range of ocular imaging tools (OCT, Micron). The Biochemistry Module evolved from a gene sequencing/primer synthesis service towards a true proteomics more accurately reflecting our current research strengths (ultracentrifugation, preparative centrifugation, Odyssey quantitative immunoblotting, gel quantitation) and metabolomics resource (specialized GC-MS, HPLC-MS, surface plasmon resonance and protein-ligand interactions). The Administrative Module provides professional grants management for the VRC.