The Biomolecular Resource Laboratory (BRL) is a heavily used core service laboratory of theComprehensive Cancer Center that supported the research laboratory activities of 41 Cancer Centermembers during fiscal year 2005. The BRL provides strategically important analytical services to Centermembers for 1) characterization of DMA, peptides, proteins and 2) identification and quantification of lipids,proteins, and peptides. These services include five different types of mass spectrometry for analysis ofproteins, peptides and lipids, automated DNA sequence analysis, synthesis of RNA and DNAoligonucleotides, purification of peptides and proteins, and chemical synthesis of peptides. The BRLanalyzed more than 14,000 samples during the reporting period. DNA sequence analysis (7924 samples)and mass spectrometry (6403 samples) were the most heavily used core services in the BRL. Theprotein/peptide and DNA chemical services accounted for an additional 956 samples. Laboratories of CancerCenter members received 49% of the services performed in the BRL during fiscal year 2005.The BRL has expanded significantly since the last review. Mass spectrometry services have been added tomeet the significant needs of Cancer Center members for metabolomics and proteomics. During the lastfunding period, three new mass spectrometers were added to the facility. These included two Bruker massspectrometers (an Autoflex MALDI-TOF and an Esquire HCT ion trap) and a Waters/Micromass QuadrupoleTime-of-flight (Q-TOF) mass spectrometer, specifically to enhance the study of proteins and lipids. Dr.Michael Thomas, a leading expert in the analysis of lipids and lipid metabolites by mass spectrometry, hasjoined the laboratory as a co-director with Dr. Mark Lively. The addition of Dr. Thomas, and his staff andinstrumentation, has enhanced the ability of the BRL to meet the needs of the Cancer Center programmembers in the especially important areas of proteomics and metabolomics. Together, Drs. Lively andThomas provide significant expertise in biochemistry of proteins and DNA, mass spectrometry, and analyticalmethods to enhance and promote cancer research in the CCCWFU.
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