Droplet digital PCR system for new applications in physiology, developmental biology, biomolecular interactions and natural product discovery

点击翻译按钮获取中文摘要

Funds are requested for the purchase of new state-of-the art system that can perform the polymerase chain-reaction to amplify DNA for quantification. It is called droplet digital PCR, and is the most sensitive and accurate way to determine the levels of gene expression in tissues and cells. Many members of the Centre for Advanced Research in Environmental Genomics (CAREG) at the University of Ottawa study gene expression in different tissues or following treatments (e.g. exposure to environmental contaminants, hormones). As a group of 7 major users, we will use the machine to research an array of topics including brain function, hormones, bacterial natural products, beneficial fungi, and phytomedicines. Thus, the purpose of the present application is to fund a digital PCR system for the use of the research teams in CAREG and to train new graduate and undergraduate students in cutting-edge gene expression analysis. Not only will their research be at the cutting-edge, their training program will be enhanced, making them more competitive when seeking employment.