To gain an unprecedented level of insight into the organisms and systems they study, several faculty employ tools in proteomics and functional genomics.
Faculty in ASU West's School of Mathematical and Natural Sciences have research interests that range from the study of single molecules to the ecology of organisms indigenous to arid regions. To gain an unprecedented level of insight into each of the organisms and systems they study, several faculty employ tools in proteomics and functional genomics. Mathematical biologists in the Division collaborate with life and natural scientists in the Division to make sense of the masses of data that typically result from experiments utilizing proteomics and functional genomics-based tools.
Instrumentation
Throughout the process of discovery, faculty engage undergraduate student researchers in use of these cross-disciplinary, cutting-edge tools that define the frontiers of modern scientific exploration. Funding (more than $500,000) provided by the National Science Foundation, ASU, and the New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences has made possible the acquisition of the instrumentation that composes our Proteomics and Functional Genomics Core Facility.
Major Equipment
Mass Spectrometry: For routine protein characterization and identification, our Core Facility contains a Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization TIme-of-Flight (MALDI-TOF) mass spectrometer (MS). Specifically, the unit is a Bruker Microflex LRF equipped with a 60 Hz laser and is capable of measuring masses of molecules ranging in size from several hundred to several hundred thousand Daltons. A comprehensive suite of software is available to assist in collecting, analyzing, interpreting, and presenting data.

Microarray Analysis: For microarray data acquisition and analysis, our Core Facility contains an Axon GenePix 4100A microarray scanner. GenePix software to facilitate data acquisition and analysis is also available.

NMR: The Core Facility contains aA Bruker Biospin AVANCETM III 400 Spectrometer System that utilizes a superconducting magnet system with 5.4 cm bore (operation field at 9.395 Tesla). The unit is equipped with a sample transport system that enables high flow rates for VT gas. Bruker TopSpin software is used for data acquisition and processing.

Nucleic Acid Analysis: The Core Facility contains two thermal cyclers and an MJ Opticon real-time thermal cycler.

Gel Imaging: We have the capacity to image both nucleic acid and protein gels using a Bio-Rad Versadoc 400 gel imaging system.

Spectrophotometry: The Core Facility contains a host of spectrophotometers and a plate reader to characterize and quantify proteins, nucleic acids, and other biological molecules. In addition, a nanodrop spectrophotometer is available.

Protein Separation and Preparation: We a variety of tools available to assist with protein separation and preparation including a Bio-Rad LP protein purification system with fraction collector, benchtop centrifuges, standard and ultracentrifuges. A rotovap system is available to concentrate samples.

Todd R. Sandrin, Ph.D.
Associate Professor/Associate Director
Division of Mathematical and Natural Sciences
New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
Mailing address (letters): ASU | MC 2352 | PO Box 37100 | Phoenix, AZ 85069-7100
Shipping address (packages): ASU | 4701 W. Thunderbird Rd. | CLCC 217 | Glendale, AZ 85306-4908
email: Todd.Sandrin@asu.edu
phone: (602) 543-6934
fax: (602) 543-6073
For NMR applications, contact:
Carl Wagner, Ph.D.
Asst. Professor
Division of Mathematical and Natural Sciences
New College of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences
Mailing address (letters): ASU | MC 2352 | PO Box 37100 | Phoenix, AZ 85069-7100
Shipping address (packages): ASU | 4701 W. Thunderbird Rd. | CLCC 217 | Glendale, AZ 85306-4908
email: Carl.Wagner@asu.edu
phone: (602)543-6937
fax: (602) 543-6073