The overall goal of the Assays and Reagents Core is to provide state of the art assay methods, reagents, advice, training, assistance, and service in ways that will increase the cost effectiveness, quality, and timeliness of research performed by principal investigators of eligible projects. Specifically, the Core will: obtain, inventory, and maintain adequate stocks of analytical reagents needed by eligible projects (this includes developing, purchasing in bulk, requesting gifts or chemically synthesizing immunogens, first and second polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies and antibody fragments, standards, other reference and quality control preparations, and tracers labeled with radioiodide, biotin or enzymes); characterize and test acquired reagents and make them available to eligible projects; meet the needs of low volume Users, individuals with inadequate laboratory support, and Users with other needs by providing high quality, cost-effective service assays on a samples-in, results-out basis; incorporate advanced analytical quality control procedures in all activities; maintain performance records, inventories, and documentation for all reagents and assay systems provided by the Core; provide timely information, assistance, and advice in utilizing the methods effectively; develop or otherwise implement improved, state of the art assay methods and analytical procedures that reduce the use of radioactive isotopes and provide increased specificity, sensitivity, reliability and ease of use; provide quality control assessments for assays and assay kits provided to eligible projects and; teach assay technology and immunoassay data processing, and provide training and instruction in radioactive and hazardous materials safety, in universal precautions for biohazards, in laboratory safety and sanitation, and in applicable regulatory compliance.
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