This proposal requests funds to purchase multi-user instrumentation for biomolecular processing, purification and analysis. An Automated Laboratory Workstation would assist processing DNA sequencing reactions. A High Performance Gel Electrophoresis Unit, a Synthetic Peptide Preparative Purification System, and a Biomolecule Preparative Purification System would accomplish a wide range of macromolecule purifications. A Solution Analytical Capillary Electrophoresis Unit would permit advanced detection of biomolecules for a wide range of research needs. The main users would be researchers in the Colleges of Agriculture, Arts and Sciences, and Medicine, and the Arizona Research Laboratories at the University of Arizona. The instruments will be housed in the Macromolecular Structure Facility established by the Division of Biotechnology. Skilled prsonnel will operate, maintain and train other users. The specific research that would be enhanced by these instruments includes: the molecular biological basis for cell differentiation and morphology; plant gene expression; plant responses to environmental stresses (salt, low water,,heat); RNA processing, protein transport and gene expression in chlorplasts; cyanelle molecular biology; expression of insect proteases inhibitors; insect endocrinology; structure/function studies of insect proteins; insect protein and lipid biochemistry; total immune system evolution; peptide/protein conformational constraints and receptor recognition; biopolymer/Ligand interactions; and chromatography support design.
