A Capillary DNA Sequencer, Quantitative RT-PCR Machine, and Digital Phosphor/Fluorescent Imager for a Multi-User Facility in the University of Oklahoma Department of Zoology

University Of Oklahoma Norman Campus, Norman OK

Investigators

Abstract

This award provides partial support for the purchase of three major equipment items: a 16-capillary DNA sequencer, a real-time quantitative PCR machine, and a digital phosphor/fluorescent imager. All three of these items will enhance an existing multi-user core facility for molecular biology research in the Department of Zoology at the University of Oklahoma-Norman Campus. The use of molecular methods has become essential in nearly all areas of biology. Beyond being central to molecular genetics, cell, and developmental biology, there has been rapid growth in the use of molecular techniques in areas such as ecology, systematics, evolution, and behavior. Molecular biology itself has recently been driven by large-scale genome sequencing and proteomics projects, with emergent new technologies and associated instruments. Studies in nearly all areas of biology increasingly focus on analysis of DNA sequence, DNA fragment (e.g., single nucleotide polymorphisms [SNPs] and microsatellites), and gene expression data, requiring access to sophisticated equipment frequently beyond the resources of individual investigators or labs. The instrumentation will also enhance undergraduate, graduate, and post-graduate research training opportunities at the University of Oklahoma.