This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. Recent breakthroughs in the design and execution of NMR experiments and in the analysis and interpretation of NMR data have created the possibility of determining the solution structure and behavior of new categories of biological macromolecules, including larger proteins and macromolecular complexes. As a structural tool, NMR is a useful complement to X-ray crystallography. However, it becomes indispensable when molecules have to be studied in solution. Moreover, NMR techniques are now being developed that can describe, in atomic detail, dynamic processes such as protein and RNA folding, protein-protein and protein-nucleic acid complex formation, and binding-induced conformational changes. On the other hand, electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) has been the methods of choice for studying the magnetic properties of paramagnetic molecules. In principle, the two methods can be used complementarily to address the same set of problems as both techniques are based on the magnetic properties of the molecule. Magnetic resonance experiments capable of elucidating the structural properties of biological macromolecules have a particular need for reliable, well maintained magnetic resonance spectrometers (NMR and EPR) equipped with the state-of-the-arts accessories. A good MMR facility will dramatically facilitate the successful completion of three out of the four subprojects described in the renewal application of the RCMI program at Jackson State University. In addition, three current and three anticipated subjects of JSU s MBRS/SCORE program need to frequently use this core facility. Therefore, the long term objective of the MMR core facility is to strengthen and enhance opportunities for faculty development and professional training, the overall goal of the RCMI program at JSU, by providing reliable modern magnetic resonance spectrometers and high quality technical services.
The specific aims of this project are: (1) to provide the state-of-the-arts instrumentation for all investigators who need sophisticated structural determinations in their research; (2) to offer proficient technical support for all users who need to use the power of magnetic resonance but are not experts in operating the instruments; (3) to maintain all spectrometers in their optimum technical specifications and guarantee their availability for research needs; and (4) to expand the facility's current capability by providing additional accessories, such as new probes, variable temperature unit, gradient unit etc.
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