The Shared Resource Core provides centralized resources and services that are tailored to the research needs of investigators in the Charleston Alcohol Research Center (ARC). In doing so, the Shared Resource Core continues to serve the critical role of promoting scientific integration, increasing efficient use of resources, and facilitating use of high quality contemporary technological and investigatory approaches that, collectively, are key to supporting the dynamic research environment fostered by the ARC. The Shared Resource Core is comprised of the Animal Core, the Clinical Intake and Assessment Core, and the Biostatistics Core. The Animal Core provides basic research projects and pilot projects with animals treated in a well-validated and established mouse model of alcohol dependence that involves repeated cycles of chronic intermittent ethanol (CIE) exposure. The Animal Core also will validate molecular tools (e.g., viruses for targeting cell-specific chemo/opto-genetic and fiber photometry manipulations) for effectiveness prior to their use in research projects. The Clinical Intake and Assessment Core will provide centralized advertisement and recruitment efforts, perform initial screening of potential study participants, conduct clinical/lab assessments to determine suitability for enrollment in specific clinical projects and pilot projects, and provide general medical oversight for clinical studies in the Center. The Biostatistics Core will continue to provide data management and statistical service to both basic and clinical research projects and pilots in the ARC. This includes assisting in study design development, performing power analyses at the front end of the projects, construction of appropriate databases, conducting analyses utilizing various contemporary statistical approaches, and assisting in preparation of manuscripts and presentations for dissemination of study results. By centralizing these vital scientific functions, the Core avoids duplication of efforts, increases efficient use of resources, facilitates use of state-of-the-art research approaches and techniques, and improves quality control through oversight of centralized functions - all contributing to maximizing productivity in the ARC. Overall, the Shared Resource Core plays a pivotal role in enhancing integration and cohesion of ARC research activities, as well as stimulating and supporting the vibrant alcohol research and training environment at MUSC.
Showing the most recent 10 out of 209 publications
