Biomolecular Characterization Suite at the University of Lethbridge

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Our multidisciplinary research programs aim to understand the molecular mechanisms that drive fundamental cellular processes, specifically, the investigation of structure-function relationships of biomolecules and their complexes from bacteria, viruses, yeast, and humans. Central to this is the integration of structural-biophysical studies with functional assays to unravel how key cellular events occur. To connect our functional studies with structural-biophysical studies, we need to employ complementary structural-biophysical methods, such as solution X-ray scattering, X-ray crystallography, and cryo-electron microscopy. This hybrid approach is essential to our highly competitive and high-impact research programs. However, we currently face significant challenges in terms of our ability to determine the homogeneity of biomolecular complexes, limiting the success of our subsequent structural-biophysical studies. The proposed Size Exclusion Chromatography, coupled with an inline Multiangle Light Scattering detector, Dynamic Light Scattering unit and a Refractometer (referred to as Biomolecular Characterization Suite, BCS) will provide a cutting-edge infrastructure critically required for the quality control analysis of a variety of biomolecules and their complexes essential for structural-biophysical studies. The key benefits of BCS include (i) molecular weight determination of biomolecules and their complexes in solution, (ii) simultaneous purification and characterization of biomolecular complexes, (iii) stoichiometry studies of biomolecular complexes, (iv) solution conformation and polymer branching studies, and (v) aggregation studies of biomolecules. The absence of this facility at the University of Lethbridge has severely hampered NSERC-funded research programs in our laboratories. The installation of a BCS will also be useful to other NSERC-funded research programs at Lethbridge and will attract academic as well as industrial collaborators. In addition to providing hands-on training with the highly desirable techniques to >60 HQP in our laboratories, we will also be able to train participating students in our new NSERC CREATE program. In conjunction with the existing research infrastructure available at Lethbridge, the installation of this urgently needed BCS will significantly advance our research and training activities.