Genetics, cellular and developmental biology facilities

Research Reactor, confocal microscopy image, Sears Plant Growth Facility

MU subsidizes 7 campus-wide core facilities: a DNA Core that provides DNA sequencing, oligonucleotide synthesis, genotyping, SNP detection and analysis and microarray services; a Cell and Immunobiology Core that provides custom monoclonal antibodies, flow cytometric analysis and tissue culture reagents; a Molecular Cytology Core with deconvolution confocal microscopy, digital light microscopy and image analysis, and assistance in immunocytochemistry and in situ hybridization; an Electron Microscopy Core with SEM and TEM instrumentation and expertise; a Transgenic Animal Core that assists in germline modification in mice; a Structural Biology Core that provides technical expertise in protein purification and crystallization and instrumentation for NMR Spectroscopy and X-ray diffraction analysis; and a Proteomics Center that provides state-of-the-art technologies in protein and peptide analysis. MU is home to the nation's largest university-based research reactor, with applications including neutron scattering studies of macromolecules and membranes and the generation of special isotopes.

The Life Sciences Center and Sears Plant Growth Facilities provide state-of-the-art workspace for MU plant research under controlled conditions. Each facility contains individual greenhouse units and walk-in growth chambers. The Sears Facility alone spans nearly one-half acre with precise control over the environment.

Individual research laboratories are equipped for state-of-the-art studies in molecular biology, cell biology, developmental biology, genetics and biochemistry. All research groups also have access to light microscopes with bright field, DIC and fluorescence optics equipped for single-cell injection and both regular and time-lapse image analysis; state-of-the-art plant growth chambers and animal care facilities; cell and tissue culture facilities; ultracentrifuges and scintillation counters; and a wide variety of equipment and facilities for data capture and image analysis.