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. Over the past decade, the application of molecular biological techniques to the study of the central nervous system has revolutionized our thinking about synaptic transmission, neuronal plasticity, and neuronal integration, as well as the molecular basis of psychiatric illnesses. The center's Molecular Biology Core emphasizes the application of biotechnologically advanced molecular techniques to study the expression, structure, function, and localization of a variety of neural substrates in the brain. The Molecular Biology Core provides training, consultation, and technical assistance in molecular biological approaches that allow individual researchers to study various molecular endpoints, regulatory mechanisms, as well as the role of transcriptional and translational processes in regulating and controlling the expression of the various neural substrates of interest. The specific technical support from this Core may include assisting with the development of specific assays or techniques such as: in situ hybridization histochemistry, Northern and Southern blot, PCR, RT-PCR, subcloning, RNA/DNA isolation, primer design, in vitro transcription, and DNA microarray applications. As Core Leader, Dr. Austin ensures that CPN investigators are provided expert advice and assistance to expand and develop molecular biological applications for their research programs. The Molecular Biology Core provides shared-access to the following amplification, visualization, detection and analysis systems: Arcturus Laser Capture Microdissection System with fluroescence and 60X objective MyiQ Single-Color Real-Time PCR Detection System with SW/Beacon Designer I Cycler IQ software BioRad Gel Documentation System NanoDrop ND-1000A UV-Vis Spectrophotometer (designed for 1-2 microliter samples) Zeiss Axioskop Microscope with Ludl motorized stage MCID Elite Image analysis system Axioskop Digital Photomicroscopy Workstation Thermal cycler GeneQuant RNA/DNA calculator Dr. Mark Austin, Core Leader of the Molecular Biology Core, is a molecular neuropharmacologist with expertise in utilizing various molecular biological approaches to study the regulation of gene expression of neurotransmitter enzymes, receptors, transporters and neuropeptides.
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