University of Michigan Skin Biology and Diseases Resource-based Center

University Of Michigan At Ann Arbor, Ann Arbor MI

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY – OVERALL The overall goal of the University of Michigan Skin Biology and Diseases Resource-based Center (UM- SBDRC) is to leverage our strengths in genomic editing, bioinformatics, and mouse modeling to enable a rapid transition from discovery to function, address biological and disease context, and facilitate development of appropriate state-of-the-art in silico approaches and in vivo mouse models of disease. Two Resource Cores have been established within the UM-SBDRC: they will continue to enhance the efficiency and translational impact of cutaneous research; provide access to unique resources and expertise; facilitate new discoveries; and provide training and guidance regarding experimental design and analysis. In addition, the Resource Cores will continuously innovate to maintain our research at the forefront of the field. The Functional Analytics Core will provide unique and innovative, state-of-the-art services for CRISPR/Cas9 genome and epigenome editing services for the generation of knockout, knock-in, and epigenome-modified keratinocytes, as well as functional characterization of these lines, and access to state-of-the-art systems biology analyses, tools, training, and resources, including the Skin Gene Query Tool, a searchable database with extensive disease-, single-cell, spatial, and cytokine-specific gene datasets. The Animal Modeling Core will continue to provide services for the design, development, validation, and characterization of genetically-engineered mouse models (GEMMs) to aid in the functional validation of results generated in the Functional Analytics Core. The Animal Modeling Core will provide resources and guidance for GEMM phenotyping and in vivo manipulation, including transgene induction protocols, UV irradiation, inflammation, fibrosis models, and for the establishment of cell cultures from GEMMs. The Administrative Core will provide leadership, oversight, and structure for the UM-SBDRC by creating a streamlined platform for core services for self-sustainability, management of material transfers of cell lines and other materials, and enhancements to its enrichment program to encourage membership from those researchers trained in backgrounds other than dermatology. The Enrichment Program includes a Mentoring Program, Pilot & Feasibility Program, Travel Awards, Visiting Speaker Series, and an Annual Symposium, with strong institutional and departmental support for the Center. In summary, the UM-SBDRC is in line with the NIAMS mission to provide critical research infrastructure, pooled facilities, services, and resources to groups of investigators across disciplines to conduct research on skin biology and diseases. The UM-SBDRC will enrich and enhance the effectiveness of ongoing basic and translational research, bring outside investigators from other backgrounds into the field of cutaneous biology, broaden the scope of skin research, and accelerate new discoveries to the benefit of our patients. PROJECT SUMMARY (Administrative Core) A NIAMS resource-based center that provides critical infrastructure and unique services, is collaborative, multidisciplinary, and leverages existing university resources for efficiency and synergy to promote new research in skin biology and diseases. This requires specific administrative leadership and support to be successful. The University of Michigan Skin Biology and Diseases Resource-based Center (UM-SBDRC) consists of an ambitious, highly integrated center program with two one-of-a-kind service cores that are led and managed by an Administrative Core (AC). In this application, the AC is taking on additional responsibilities including: 1. Providing a streamlined platform for current and additional core services for self-sustainability; 2. Management of material transfers of cell lines and other materials in and out of service cores; and 3. Enhancements to its enrichment program to encourage broader participation from the research community. We will achieve this by providing leadership, oversight, and support for the Center, providing effective Center management strategies, providing a system for evaluating Center effectiveness and success, coordinating an effective communications platform, implementing a robust Enrichment Program. The Administrative Core will also build on its effective communications platform — including interactive and informational websites, newsletters, program and informational emails — by improving the web platform and adding new ways to engage members. To enhance the research environment and provide opportunities for member interaction and collaboration, the Administrative Core will continue its robust Enrichment Program. This includes:1. A Pilot & Feasibility Program; 2. A Mentoring Program; 3. A Travel Award Program; 4. A Visiting Scholar Program; and 5. An Annual Symposium. As a result of past Center activities and the outstanding training and services provided by the Resource Cores, the University of Michigan SBDRC has had a powerful and sustained impact on cutaneous biology research — at the University of Michigan, nationally, and internationally. The Center will continue to facilitate skin-related research activities by its members, bring new investigators and disciplines into the field, enhance research infrastructure for improved communication and scientific interactions, increase the visibility of the cutaneous research community at UM and beyond, lead additional new research initiatives and external support for team- science projects relevant to the NIAMS mission. The research infrastructure and programs provided through the UM-SBDRC will continue to help translate basic discoveries from the lab to the clinic, improving the health of patients with a variety of skin disorders.