Research Cores

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Translational Research Core provides pathology and molecular services which include grossing of animal tissue, histopathology, tissue microarray generation, and the development of protocols for new antibodies and in-situ hybridization probes. Imaging and image analysis services include: (1) full slide scanning of human and animal cells/tissues on glass slides, including either chromogenic or fluorescent multispectral scanning, (2) image analysis of digital images generated with single or multiple probes in visible light or fluorescent wavelength ranges. The core also has a number of state-of-the art imaging and molecular instrumentation (laser-capture microdissection, nanostring, confocal, lightsheet microscope etc.) that are available to researchers.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/biobank-translational.html

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The Biobehavioral Research Core (BRC) assists in all aspects of behavioral testing in rodents, including the execution of behavioral tests, experimental design development, as well as analysis and interpretation of data. The BRC employs a modern suite of testing equipment and methodologies, to address a wide range of behavioral testing domains, including: sensory and motor function, cognition, affective behavior, social behavior, pain, and stereotype/repetitive behavior. In addition, powerful user-directed and automated software packages are available to track and analyze animal behavior in real-time or from pre-recorded video files.

The BRC offers multiple services for the assessment of rodent behavior: (1) Comprehensive testing service: BRC expert staff conducts the behavioral testing and provides the organized data to the investigator; (2) Testing assistance service: BRC expert staff works in collaboration with client to help with behavioral testing and data organization; (3) Training service: our staff provides training and/or direct supervision to the investigator’s laboratory staff. At completion trainees are issued a training certificate detailing the steps to full proficiency; (4) Facility and/or equipment use service: the investigator’s laboratory staff uses BRC facilities and/or testing equipment. This service requires that the client study staff complete adequate training (provided by BRC staff) and obtain a training certificate of full proficiency. BRC staff will provide indirect supervision; (5) Custom method development and data analysis: BRC staff will work with clients to develop customized testing methods to address the unique characteristics of their rodent disease models or research questions. BRC also offers data analysis services, including assistance with interpretation of results. 

Please visit the BRC website for a complete list of available services, instrumentation, and detailed information about data processing and analyses.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Research/Research-Cores/Biobehavioral-Research-Core/

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The Cedars-Sinai Research Imaging Core (RIC) is an advanced imaging center dedicated to providing high-quality imaging services tailored to the unique needs of the research community from rodents and large animals to human subjects. We offer a Clinical 3T MRI (Vida, Siemens) and simultaneous Clinical PET/MR (Biograph, Siemens) for human and large animal subjects, as well as 9.4T Small Animal MRI (Bruker), in-Vivo Small Animal/Specimen CT (Scanco Viva40 and PerkElmer Quantum GX2), Cryofluoresence Tomography (EMIT) Optical (IVIS Spectrum and Luminar XR), Small Animal image guided irradiator (X-RAD SmART), micro-ultrasound imaging system (Vevo 3100) and Small Animal 4Dx Lung imaging services for research. 

Our facility is staffed with highly trained and experienced personnel, including expert research scientists, technologists, registered nurses, and additional support staff to ensure the most positive experience. We also offer core IRB/IACUC protocol support and seed grants to help get your research started quickly, and a dedicated research PACS and post-processing software to support data transfer, image analysis and data processing. In addition to research imaging, the Siemens systems are licensed for clinical use to allow standard-of-care, diagnostic imaging performed in conjunction with research imaging. We welcome and look forward to working with all CTSI investigators.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/imaging.html

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The Rodent Genetics Core provides specialized services for the production of genetically modified animals. The core offers high-quality, specific pathogen-free transgenic and knockout (knock-in) mice focused on genes of specific interest to a broad range of biomedical research projects to investigators at Cedars-Sinai, as well as affiliated and outside institutions. The core also helps design the DNA constructs for pronuclear microinjection or gene targeting with the most up-to-date genetic technologies such as the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system.

The core also offers assisted fertilization services followed by embryo transfer to save poorly breeding mutant mouse lines, as well as cryopreservation of embryos and sperm for conservation of genetic resources. The core encourages interactive usage of these animals among Cedars-Sinai or CTSI affiliated investigators.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/rodent-genetics.html

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The Lundquist/Harbor-UCLA Animal Care and Use Program is uniquely designed to accommodate large animal models, and is equipped with several large animal surgical suites containing anesthesia machines, monitoring equipment, fluoroscopes, and a CT Scanner. The major types of studies center around perinatal lung development, the effect of the fetal environment on development, antibody production, vascular implant surgery, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Services include: (1) protocol development, (2) animal procurement, (3) animal care procedures, (4) animal health programs, (5) special services, and (6) training programs.

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Expertise and equipment for the design, implementation, and analysis of behavioral experiments. We work on a broad range of projects in both rats and mice, from behavioral phenotyping of novel transgenic mouse lines to developing rodent models of human clinical disorders.

Website:

http://btc.psych.ucla.edu/

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The Cardiovascular Research Theme at UCLA offers rodent models of cardiovascular disease as research resources to all researchers in the CV theme. The goal of this core is to provide CV theme researchers expertise and ready access to cardiac injury models for pre-clinical studies or mechanistic investigation of injury induced abnormalities affecting repair, scarring or electrical propagation.

Website:

https://medschool.ucla.edu/cv-research-theme-small-animal-physiology-core

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The Mouse Physiology Core Laboratory facility is dedicated to the phenotypic assessment of mouse and rat models of disease using a wide variety of integrative approaches. Our aim is to provide a cost effective means for investigators to reveal important functional aspects of their mouse and rat models without having to individually invest in hiring skilled personnel and in the purchase of expensive instrumentation. We specialize in ultrasound (echo) & telemetric assessments, survival and non-survival surgeries, acute and chronic evaluations of cardiac and neuro-regulatory function as well as basic metabolic and exercise assessments. The lab is also capable of certification testing of new drugs or substances intended for human use by performing FDA approved (GLP certified 21 CFR part 58 including part 11 compliance) studies on rodent models.

Website:

http://www.physiology.ucla.edu/Labs/Mouselab.htm

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The Nano and Pico Characterization (NPC) Laboratory at CNSI provides a unique collection of analytical and imaging tools along with expert technical support to enable the physicochemical characterization of nanomaterials and systems under a wide range of applications and experimental conditions. Technical capabilities include surface analysis by Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM); hydrodynamic size and surface charge analysis by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Zeta Potential (ZP) measurements; elemental and chemical analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The NPC team provides core services including: (1) consultation for effective decision-making based on your needs, (2) application-specific training and assisted measurements, (3) sample preparation (e.g., acid digestion) and sample analysis.

Website:

https://npc.cnsi.ucla.edu/

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The Radiation Oncology Animal Core breeds and houses mice in a gnotobiotic environment. The core can supply various strains of mice to meet investigators’ needs (please see website). Mice from other facilities may be imported, after inspection of sentinel health reports, and housed in the extra-barrier area. Irradiators are available for both whole-body and partial body exposures including image-guided techniques. The core additionally maintains an ABSL2 facility.

Website:

https://www.uclahealth.org/radonc/radiation-oncology-animal-core

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The overall goal of the UCLA Humanized Mouse Core Laboratory is to provide the infrastructure, materials, animals, technical expertise, and support that will facilitate the use of humanized immunodeficient mice in studies examining human tissues and disease in the context of a small animal model system. Services include: (1) procuring immunodeficient mice at a reduced cost, (2) providing specialized animal laboratories for the construction, housing, and maintenance of immunodeficient mice, (3) constructing humanized mice, (4) developing and optimizing new humanized mouse models, (5) providing technical expertise and consultation on humanized mouse models. The core also provides consultation in flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, PCR, and other assays.

Website:

https://www.uclahealth.org/aidsinstitute/cfar/humanized-mouse-core

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The Zebrafish Core facilitates the use and quick access of common mutation, genetically-engineered transgenic zebrafish, and routine techniques of zebrafish manipulation by investigators. Services include: (1) providing space to house zebrafish and perform large-scale genetic screens, (2) providing embryos for experiments, (3) generation of transgenic zebrafish, and (4) cryostorage of zebrafish sperm and re-derivation of live fish. Training is available for select techniques and zebrafish husbandry.

Website:

https://www.mcdb.ucla.edu/Research/Zebrafish/

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The Biobank is a state-of-the-art biorepository that: (1) collects human biospecimens based on institutional priorities for biomedical research and also for investigator-driven requests, (2) provides tissue, blood, and body fluid collection, processing, and storage services, (3) provides a uniform, institution-wide, consent process for facilitating research studies, (4) provides clinical annotation services and fulfills custom requests for chart review, and (5) aids in developing protocols for human biospecimen procurement and processing.

The Translational Research Core provides pathology and molecular services which include grossing of human/animal tissue, histopathology, tissue microarray generation, and the development of protocols for new antibodies and in-situ hybridization probes. Imaging and image analysis services include: (1) full slide scanning of human and animal cells/tissues on glass slides, including either chromogenic or fluorescent multispectral scanning, (2) image analysis of digital images generated with single or multiple probes in visible light or fluorescent wavelength ranges. The core also has a number of state-of-the art imaging and molecular instrumentation (laser-capture microdissection, nanostring, confocal, lightsheet microscope etc.) that are available to researchers.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/biobank-translational.html

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The CSMC Flow Cytometry Core is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for cell analysis and sorting, utilizing fluorescent probes targeted to specific cell-associated molecules to characterize the diversity and function of complex cell populations. Fluorescence-activated cell sorters can also individually identify and isolate live cells with a defined phenotype that can later be expanded and/or further studied. The core is equipped to handle biohazardous samples and offers both, cell population and single cell sorting. The core is open 24/7 for analysis and can provide flexible hours for sorting to accommodate experimental needs. The core also provides training for new users and offers consulting for experimental design, for a fee.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/flow-cytometry.html

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The HLA and Immunogenetics Laboratory provides state-of-the-art histocompatibility and immunogenetics testing for solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The HLA Laboratory also provides histocompatibility testing for non-transplant services including disease association and drug hypersensitivity. Services include: (1) intermediate and high-resolution HLA typing by next generation sequencing, (2) HLA and non-HLA antibody detection by solid phase or cell-based assays, (3) KIR and MICA gene typing, (4) chimerism testing, and (5) other immune assessment.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/transplant-center/programs/immunogenetics.html

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The Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) Core at the Cedars-Sinai Biomanufacturing Center uses the latest techniques to reprogram, expand, and characterize human iPSCs from human skin or blood tissues of healthy subjects and diseased patients. iPSCs are then turned into specific cells of the human body including components of the nervous system, eyes, blood, bones, heart, gut, liver, and pancreas, for use by researchers. Applications of this technology include human disease modeling-in-a-dish, developing human reporter cell lines via genetic modification, drug screening on pathological human cell types, and potentially developing cell replacement or regenerative therapies. The iPSC Core offers: (1) iPSC generation and characterization (QC) services, (2) SNP array to asses cytogenetic abnormalities, (3) bio-banking and iPSC thawing, (4) imaging services, (5) extensive iPSC line catalog, (6) cell differentiation services, (7) gene editing, and (8) iPSC culture training.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/areas/biomanufacturing.html

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The Proteomics, Metabolomics and Mitochondrial Function Core is defined by technically diverse instrumentation with the most advanced technologies available to the fields of proteomics, metabolomics and quantitative targeted protein assays. These technologies are dedicated to the identification and quantitative analysis of analytes from all types of biological samples including whole blood, plasma, CSF, cells or tissues and include samples originating from cell culture, animal models or patient-derived research studies. Services include a wide variety of discovery proteomics assays, identification of co- and post-translational modifications (phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation citrullination and more), as well as the fields leading methodologies for protein dynamics and protein-protein interactions.

A selection of targeted mass spectrometry-based assays is available for quantification of protein panels associated with important cellular pathways and functions. In addition to many mass spectrometry-based assays available, the core is equipped with two of the field’s leading immunoassay platforms, (1) ultra-sensitive digital ELISA, SIMOA HD-1 Analyzer (2) high-performance electrochemiluminescence ELISA platform, MESO QuickPlex SQ 12. All Proteomics and Metabolomic Core services include data analysis and a data release consultation. Advanced bioinformatic services for biological pathway analyzes and multi-omic data integration are also available through the core bioinformatic services.

To complement molecular phenotyping of mitochondria by metabolomics and proteomics, we recently incorporated instrumentation for seahorse respirometry and support a suite of seahorse XFp instruments. These respirometry platforms enable quantification of cellular metabolism by glycolytic and oxidative pathways and in response to numerous nutrient sources and perturbations. Our Mitochondria and Metabolomics experts wield expertise to advise on complex interrogations of mitochondrial biology and we offer consultation and support on techniques for in-depth mitochondrial characterization beyond respirometry, to include mitochondrial morphometry, turnover rates, membrane potential, mPTP susceptibility, cytochrome c release, free radical production, mtDNA sequencing and 8- oxo-dG analysis.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/proteomics-metabolomics.html

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The Bioimaging and Immunotherapeutics Research Core provides four major resources to researchers: (1) the BD Calibur flow cytometer facility, which employs a dual-laser (argon and helium-neon), 4-color FACS Calibur flow cytometer and cell sorter to facilitate the molecular and physiological examination of individual cells and enable collection of living cells for further study; (2) the IVIS Lumina II system, a high-sensitivity, in vivo imaging technology platform that enables non-invasive visualization of both bioluminescent and fluorescent signals, tracking of cellular and therapeutic activities within a living organism in real time, and detection of signals from tissue, petri dishes, and microtiter plates; (3) a Luminex multiplex analyzer that utilizes xMAP microsphere technology and has the capability of performing up to 100 assays simultaneously in a single well of a microtiter plate; and (4) a Biotek Synergy 2 multi-mode microplate reader, a combination luminometer-fluorometer-absorbance detector capable of reading 96-well and larger plates that utilizes both filter-based and monochromatic-based light-detection technology.

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The High-Resolution Tissue Respirometry (HRTR) Core supports investigators in mitochondrial physiology and pathophysiology studies. The core provides consultation, training, and services for assessment of oxidative phosphorylation in isolated mitochondria,cells, vesicles or tissue preparations. The HRTR Core uses Oroboros Oxygraph-2k High Resolution Respirometry equipment. Applications of HRTR include: (1) diagnosis of acquired and genetic mitochondrial diseases, myopathies, and neuromuscular pathologies, (2) study of pathologies with reduced cellular respiration, (3) studies on cell function and cell death, (4) aging and senescence, (5) oxidative stress and antioxidant systems, (6) ischemia-reperfusion injury, (7) cancer research / pharmacological tests, (8) environmental stress, and (9) metabolic substrate balance.

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The UCLA Cardiovascular Research Theme will provide cardiac muscle cells as a core service at a highly subsidized rate. The goal of this service is to provide a readily available resource of cardiac muscle cells for investigators performing ex vivo experiments on cardiac muscle cells. Two types of cardiac muscle cells will be provided: (1) Neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes. These cells beat in the dish for 3-7 days and provide a platform for determining effects of toxins, drugs or other genetic manipulation of the cardiac muscle cell, and (2) Human embryonic stem cell or human iPSC derived cardiomyocytes. H9 or other NIH approved lines and UCLA approved lines are used as a source for the differentiation of cardiac muscle cells. Human pluripotent stem cell derived cardiac muscle cells will be handed to investigators at their preferred time point of differentiation. To maintain consistency, standard differentiation programs are used. Crispr/Cas edited hPSC derived cardiomyocytes will be introduced as a core service in the near future.

Website:

https://medschool.ucla.edu/cv-research-theme-cardiac-muscle-cell-core

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The Virology Core Laboratory provides a wide array of services for both HIV/AIDS and other researchers. It offers testing services (p24 ELISA, real time and digital droplet PCR for the detection of HIV cDNA, HIV viral load), blood and blood cell products. In addition, the core maintains a fully equipped and stocked BSL2+ facility for scientists that do not have wet lab space, new investigators joining UCLA or investigators that do not have such lab space. Finally, the core is able to assist individual researchers with special projects related to, but not limited to, HIV detection.

Website:

http://www.virology.med.ucla.edu/

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The core laboratory provides instrumentation and technical and professional assistance for performing laser-based flow cytometric analysis and cell sorting. The facility also offers training in basic flow cytometry principles and in the operation of analytic cytometers. A second course teaches nucleic acid analysis and measurement of proliferation by flow cytometry as well as hands-on instrument set-up and use of the specialized DNA analysis software.

Website:

http://cyto.mednet.ucla.edu/home.html

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The Immune Assessment Core (IAC) is a CLIA certified laboratory that provides comprehensive immunological testing services for basic, clinical, and translational studies. The IAC provides both standardized and customized multi-parameter flow cytometry, multiplexed immunoassays and cellular immune function assays to evaluate the innate and adaptive immune status of study subjects. Validated tests include comprehensive immunophenotyping panels, multiplexed cytokine/chemokine detection in body fluids or culture supernatants, several ELISA assays, allo- and virus-specific T cell activation, T and B cell proliferation to antigens and mitogens, NK cell cytotoxicity, and granulocyte/monocyte oxidative burst. The core also performs customized assay development to meet the investigators’ needs.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/iac

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The IMTC services include (but are not limited to): (1) consultation and troubleshooting in techniques for efficient gene delivery, as well as cloning and functional protein expression in mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo, (2) virus production such as Lentivirus, Adenovirus-Associated virus, (3) consultation and to perform customized gene expression profiling, cytological phenotype profiling, and high-throughput molecular screening studies by utilizing high-throughput and highly automated robotic systems. The Integrated Molecular Technologies Core (IMTC) is therefore intended to serve as a comprehensive resource that will provide access to state-of-the-art molecular tools and thereby aims to facilitate the research activities of CURE: DDRCC investigators.

Website:

https://www.ucladdrcc.med.ucla.edu/cores/integrated-molecular-technologies-core-imtc-and-microbiome-sub-core

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The UCLA Mitochondria and Metabolism Core provides the necessary technical and conceptual resources for studying mitochondrial function. Services include respirometry assays in intact cells, permeabilized cells, and isolated mitochondria using the Seahorse XF96 Extracellular Flux Analyzer. Additionally, a frozen tissue respirometry assay is now available to measure maximal respiratory capacity in previously frozen samples.  An Operetta High Content Imaging System is also available for measurements of mitochondrial mass, membrane potential, and reactive oxygen species, among other applications. The Mitochondria and Metabolism Core provides in-depth training and scheduled use of instruments or full-service options for assay design, performance, and data analysis.

Website:

https://medschool.ucla.edu/metabolism/cores

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The Nano and Pico Characterization (NPC) Laboratory at CNSI provides a unique collection of analytical and imaging tools along with expert technical support to enable the physicochemical characterization of nanomaterials and systems under a wide range of applications and experimental conditions. Technical capabilities include surface analysis by Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM); hydrodynamic size and surface charge analysis by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Zeta Potential (ZP) measurements; elemental and chemical analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The NPC team provides core services including: (1) consultation for effective decision-making based on your needs, (2) application-specific training and assisted measurements, (3) sample preparation (e.g., acid digestion) and sample analysis.

Website:

https://npc.cnsi.ucla.edu/

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The Applied Genomics, Computation & Translational Core (AGCT Core) is a fully equipped, automated, high-throughput genomics facility offering the latest in next generation sequencing technologies, including single cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, and bulk cell genomics. We generate and interpret single cell omics, genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and metagenomics information for basic and clinical research. As a 10x Genomic Certified Service Provider, the AGCT Core specializes in single cell omics applications, including scRNA-Seq, scATAC-Seq, scV(D)J immune profiling, and scMultiome. We offer sample preparation for such assays, from fresh or frozen tissue, cryopreserved cells, fresh-frozen tissue blocks, and FFPE tissue blocks. The AGCT Core also specializes in Visium spatial transcriptomics for fresh-frozen or for FFPE tissue. Cryostat and microtome sectioning services are also available. Single cell DNA sequencing via the Mission Bio Tapestri system is also offered by the AGCT Core. The AGCT Core also offers bulk cell mRNA-Seq and total RNA-Seq for all sample types, including low-input or degraded RNA. miRNA-Seq is also available.  Our genomics offerings include whole genome and whole exome sequencing.  Our epigenomics services include ATAC-Seq and whole genome bisulfite sequencing.  For metagenomics, we offer amplicon sequencing of the V1-V2 region or all regions (V1-V9) of the 16S rRNA gene.  We also offer ITS amplicon sequencing for mycobiome studies. Sequencing-only services are also available.

We offer complete laboratory and bioinformatics analysis pipelines to accommodate standard needs, as well as work actively in collaborations to offer more sophisticated or custom solutions on most omics-wide investigations. We have set up solid pipelines associated with each sequencing service for primary data processing, including read alignment, quality control, and expression quantification (bulk & single-cell RNA-seq), variant calling (WGS/WES) or peak calling (bulk and single-cell ATAC-seq/CUT&TAG/ChIP-seq). We provide analysis for the latest in spatial transcriptomics technologies include 10x Genomics Visium for both fresh frozen and FFPE samples, as well as the GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler. Our pipelines fully support analysis of multiomic data include 10x Genomics’ multiome and CITE-seq, and we have extensive experience analyzing data from various cell hashing techniques. We have also developed packages for in-depth, customized computational analyses driven by specific biological questions defined by investigators. Furthermore, we provide support on interpretation and presentation of results, generating extensive reports with publication-ready images, and drafting of bioinformatics and statistical methodology for manuscripts. We provide lifelong data curation and cloud storage for collaborators. 

Please visit the AGCT Core’s website for a complete list of available services, instrumentation, and detailed information about data processing and analyses.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/genomics.html

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The Biostatistics Core is a resource for biostatistical consulting and related methodological research and serves as a focal point from which investigators may draw statistical expertise for planning, management, and analysis of their studies. Faculty and staff at the core: (1) coordinate and manage statistical activities at Cedars-Sinai to ensure that investigators have ready access to statistical consultation and support, (2) provide statistical expertise in the design of experiments and studies, including research proposal development, sample size determination, randomization procedures and plans for interim reviews and final analysis, (3) assist with the writing of statistical components of manuscripts, (4) review the integrity and statistical soundness of all studies involving human subjects, (5) provide statistical analysis for projects using appropriate statistical and computing methodologies and assist in the interpretation and presentation of results, (6) interact and collaborate with the Clinical Research Office in the development of protocols and the monitoring and reporting of clinical data, (7) maintain a computing facility with up-to-date software for statistical analysis to support program project investigators, and (8) conduct biostatistical methodology research on practical problems arising in basic science populational and clinical studies.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Research/Research-Cores/Biostatistical-Sciences/

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To best understand complex human diseases, data should be efficiently collected at various levels and analyzed in an integrated manner. In this context, ‘Bioinformatics’ plays an important role in many aspects, including data storage and retrieval, software development, and data visualization. These are especially critical these days when trying to summarize massive data sets and highly complex analytical outcomes in research.

The Bioinformatics Core will provide state-of-the-art bioinformatics services and consulting, proposing the best practice of existing computational pipelines, mathematical modeling, statistical analysis methods, and machine learning approaches. For example, with this resource, our investigators will be able to target these topic areas: 1) identification of novel therapeutic targets through network-based master regulator analysis, 2) centralized interpretation of single cell multi-omics data for decoding cellular heterogeneity and identifying cell type specific molecular profile, 3) characterization of potential immune and microenvironmental interactions through computational deconvolution methods and multimodal data integration, 4) development of machine learning algorithms for biomedicine in the clinic evaluating best practices and validating efficacy for predicting patient outcomes and therapies within institution, and 5) significant advances in computational infrastructure to provide web resources for community model development and distribution.

Website:

https://stage.cedars-sinai.edu/research/cores/cancer-bioinformatics-shared-resource.html

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The Applied Genomics, Computation & Translational Core (AGCT Core) is a fully equipped, automated, high-throughput genomics facility offering the latest in next generation sequencing technologies, including single cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, and bulk cell genomics. We generate and interpret single cell omics, genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and metagenomics information for basic and clinical research. As a 10x Genomic Certified Service Provider, the AGCT Core specializes in single cell omics applications, including scRNA-Seq, scATAC-Seq, scV(D)J immune profiling, and scMultiome. We offer sample preparation for such assays, from fresh or frozen tissue, cryopreserved cells, fresh-frozen tissue blocks, and FFPE tissue blocks. The AGCT Core also specializes in Visium spatial transcriptomics for fresh-frozen or for FFPE tissue. Cryostat and microtome sectioning services are also available. Single cell DNA sequencing via the Mission Bio Tapestri system is also offered by the AGCT Core. The AGCT Core also offers bulk cell mRNA-Seq and total RNA-Seq for all sample types, including low-input or degraded RNA. miRNA-Seq is also available.  Our genomics offerings include whole genome and whole exome sequencing.  Our epigenomics services include ATAC-Seq and whole genome bisulfite sequencing.  For metagenomics, we offer amplicon sequencing of the V1-V2 region or all regions (V1-V9) of the 16S rRNA gene.  We also offer ITS amplicon sequencing for mycobiome studies. Sequencing-only services are also available.

We offer complete laboratory and bioinformatics analysis pipelines to accommodate standard needs, as well as work actively in collaborations to offer more sophisticated or custom solutions on most omics-wide investigations. We have set up solid pipelines associated with each sequencing service for primary data processing, including read alignment, quality control, and expression quantification (bulk & single-cell RNA-seq), variant calling (WGS/WES) or peak calling (bulk and single-cell ATAC-seq/CUT&TAG/ChIP-seq). We provide analysis for the latest in spatial transcriptomics technologies include 10x Genomics Visium for both fresh frozen and FFPE samples, as well as the GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler. Our pipelines fully support analysis of multiomic data include 10x Genomics’ multiome and CITE-seq, and we have extensive experience analyzing data from various cell hashing techniques. We have also developed packages for in-depth, customized computational analyses driven by specific biological questions defined by investigators. Furthermore, we provide support on interpretation and presentation of results, generating extensive reports with publication-ready images, and drafting of bioinformatics and statistical methodology for manuscripts. We provide lifelong data curation and cloud storage for collaborators. 

Please visit the AGCT Core’s website for a complete list of available services, instrumentation, and detailed information about data processing and analyses.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/genomics.html

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The Institute for Translational Genomics and Population Sciences consists of 3 core laboratories—the Laboratory for Biochemistry, Molecular Phenotyping, and Cell Line Repository; the Laboratory for Statistical and Mathematical Genetics; and the Laboratory for Molecular Genetics, Bioinformatics, and High Throughput Genotyping. The Genomics Institute Faculty have been extremely active in large scale genetic studies and both single cohort and in multi-cohort (and multi-ethnic) consortium efforts that have identified many genetic loci for cardiometabolic traits. We have contributed to the design stages, to performance of biochemical phenotyping, to large scale genotyping, and to statistical genetic analysis. The many loci we and our collaborators have identified are being utilized by ourselves and others to generate multi-loci genetic risk scores as powerful tools to dissect disease etiology and to perform risk assessment in populations. Besides our involvement in many large scale genome wide association studies (GWAS), we are now actively involved in large scale whole genome sequencing studies (WGS) and Multi-Omics studies.

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The UCLA Microbiome Core performs services related to microbiome studies including 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing, shotgun metagenomics sequencing, human/animal sample collection and processing (feces, tissues, intestinal lavage, rectal sponges, vaginal swabs), frozen fecal sample aliquoting, bioinformatics analysis of 16S rRNA and shotgun metagenomics data, quantitative PCR of total bacterial load, fecal calprotectin measurement, and long-term storage of fecal aliquots as well as extracted microbial DNA.

Website:

https://www.uclahealth.org/gastro/jacobs-lab/core-services

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The UCLA Neurosciences Genomics Core (UNGC) currently operates an Illumina BeadLab 1000 high throughput SNP genotyping system (iScan) and has access to Illumina NovaSeq instruments on the UNCLA campus. A PacBio Sequel IIe long read sequencer is currently being installed. Services include: RNA/DNA library preparation and sequencing on NovaSeq and PacBio platforms. Genotyping available using all current Illumina Infinium genotyping arrays. Whole genome methylation assays using Illumina Meth-Epic and Horvath custom pan-mammalian arrays available. For project specific pricing please contact Joe DeYoung, facility manager. Non-UCLA neuroscience labs, please inquire about service availability.

View UNGC's available equipment and services.

Website:

https://www.semel.ucla.edu/ungc

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The Technology Center for Genomics and Bioinformatics (TCGB) is a fully automated, high-throughput genomic facility equipped with all major next generation sequencing. TCGB provides state-of-the-art genomics technologies, comprehensive services, specialized expertise and a wide range of trainings, enabling these services in a cost-effective and timely manner to serve basic science and translational/clinical research. The Core provides pre-experiment consultation, post-experiment support, and educational training to faculty, staff, and students to raise awareness on new directions and major discoveries in the areas of genomics and bioinformatics. Services include: (1) next generation sequencing, (2) 10X single cell sequencing, 3) 10X Visum and Noanostring GeoMx spatial transcriptomics, 4) Data analysis, and (5) quality control services, RNA/DNA extraction, and qRT- PCR.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/tcgb

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The Biobank is a state-of-the-art biorepository that: (1) collects human biospecimens based on institutional priorities for biomedical research and also for investigator-driven requests, (2) provides tissue, blood, and body fluid collection, processing, and storage services, (3) provides a uniform, institution-wide, consent process for facilitating research studies, (4) provides clinical annotation services and fulfills custom requests for chart review, and (5) aids in developing protocols for human biospecimen procurement and processing.

The Translational Research Core provides pathology and molecular services which include grossing of human/animal tissue, histopathology, tissue microarray generation, and the development of protocols for new antibodies and in-situ hybridization probes. Imaging and image analysis services include: (1) full slide scanning of human and animal cells/tissues on glass slides, including either chromogenic or fluorescent multispectral scanning, (2) image analysis of digital images generated with single or multiple probes in visible light or fluorescent wavelength ranges. The core also has a number of state-of-the art imaging and molecular instrumentation (laser-capture microdissection, nanostring, confocal, lightsheet microscope etc.) that are available to researchers.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/biobank-translational.html

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The HLA and Immunogenetics Laboratory provides state-of-the-art histocompatibility and immunogenetics testing for solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The HLA Laboratory also provides histocompatibility testing for non-transplant services including disease association and drug hypersensitivity. Services include: (1) intermediate and high-resolution HLA typing by next generation sequencing, (2) HLA and non-HLA antibody detection by solid phase or cell-based assays, (3) KIR and MICA gene typing, (4) chimerism testing, and (5) other immune assessment.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/transplant-center/programs/immunogenetics.html

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The Cedars-Sinai Research Imaging Core (RIC) is an advanced imaging center dedicated to providing high-quality imaging services tailored to the unique needs of the research community from rodents and large animals to human subjects. We offer a Clinical 3T MRI (Vida, Siemens) and simultaneous Clinical PET/MR (Biograph, Siemens) for human and large animal subjects, as well as 9.4T Small Animal MRI (Bruker), in-Vivo Small Animal/Specimen CT (Scanco Viva40 and PerkElmer Quantum GX2), Cryofluoresence Tomography (EMIT) Optical (IVIS Spectrum and Luminar XR), Small Animal image guided irradiator (X-RAD SmART), micro-ultrasound imaging system (Vevo 3100) and Small Animal 4Dx Lung imaging services for research.

Our facility is staffed with highly trained and experienced personnel, including expert research scientists, technologists, registered nurses, and additional support staff to ensure the most positive experience. We also offer core IRB/IACUC protocol support and seed grants to help get your research started quickly, and a dedicated research PACS and post-processing software to support data transfer, image analysis and data processing. In addition to research imaging, the Siemens systems are licensed for clinical use to allow standard-of-care, diagnostic imaging performed in conjunction with research imaging. We welcome and look forward to working with all CTSI investigators.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/imaging.html

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The CTRC Bionutrition Core at Lundquist/Harbor-UCLA provides services to outpatient, overnight / extended stay and community based studies. A metabolic kitchen is dedicated to the preparation of nutrient controlled and regular meals. The Bionutrition Core has a metabolic assessment room with DXA, indirect calorimetry, BIA and anthropometric tools that integrates body composition, bone mineral density, and energy expenditure testing. The Bionutrition Core also provides state-of-the-art nutrition computing facilities with programs for nutrient analysis, semi-quantitative food frequency analysis, and design and specification of research diets. The Bionutrition Core personnel are experienced with REDCAP and can facilitate the collection and tracking of nutrition data for research studies. Training in nutrition research methodology is available to research fellows and other students.

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The Computed Tomographic (CT) Reading Core specializes in cardiac, vascular, and body composition imaging using advanced CT workstations, advanced quality control methods, systems storage, and analytical methods for multiple investigations. It provides unique services in atherosclerosis imaging including plaque quantification, perfusion imaging, and diagnostic services. In addition, the CT Reading Core offers collaborations in the area of renal, hepatic, vascular, and pulmonary imaging, as well as body composition and endothelial function assessment.

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The Endocrine and Metabolic Research Laboratory supports clinical and translational investigators in many aspects of research through expertise in analytical testing and development of new methods. Over forty different procedures are offered through the Endocrine and Metabolic Research Laboratory utilizing a variety of techniques including radioimmunoassay, fluoroimmunoassay, fluorometry and LC-MS/MS. Additionally, semen analyses and special andrological testing are available in the Andrology Laboratory.

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The pulmonary function testing (PFT) cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) core lab facility supports investigators in pulmonary function and cardiopulmonary exercise testing studies. PFT consists of an array of non-invasive tests of abnormality of lung mechanics and pulmonary gas exchange used to detect the presence of, and quantify the severity of, a range of lung diseases. CPET provides a whole-body assessment of the integrative exercise responses involving the pulmonary, cardiovascular, hematopoietic, neuropsychological, and skeletal muscle systems, which are not adequately reflected through the measurement of individual organ system function. The CPET Core Lab will provide consultation, training, and services for clinical research using PFT and CPET. The Core Lab is also highly-experienced in multicenter clinical trials using PFT and CPET measurements.

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The UCLA Center for Computer Vision and Imaging Biomarkers (CVIB) provides imaging core lab services, including: (1) standardized multi-center imaging protocol development and quality control, (2) image de-identification, transfer, banking, and distribution, (3) cutting-edge quantitative image feature extraction, analysis, and data management, and (4) imaging research database support. CVIB also provides clinical quantitative imaging services within UCLA Healthcare and to overseas hospital departments.

Key attributes of the CVIB Core Laboratory are: (1) image quality, (2) accurate and reproducible quantitation, (3) rigorous science, (4) high throughput, (5) well-managed and on-time service, and (6) user friendly.

Website:

http://cvib.ucla.edu/

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The Center for Human Nutrition provides Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) Body Composition Analysis. DXA body composition analysis is considered the "gold standard" for measurement of body fat including visceral fat estimation, and gives an accurate measure for assessing health. Specialized scans to assess Bone Mineral Density analysis are available, which can be utilized for assessing bone health and risk estimation of osteopenia and osteoporosis.

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The UC Fit-Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, part of the Airway & Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, promotes a prevention model of wellness, focused on forestalling disease progression through the enhancement of health and fitness practices. Recently, the lab was distinguished as part of the Exercise is Medicine� on-campus recognition program through the American College of Sports Medicine, together whose vision is to create a campus culture that embraces physical activity and exercise as a daily facet of life and views it as essential for long-term health and wellness. Health-fitness assessments include: (1) aerobic performance; (2) pulmonary function; (3) body composition; (4) muscle performance; (5) functional movement screen; (6) total energy expenditure; (7) sleep quality; (8) cardiovascular health risk & HRV; (9) posture; (10) performance tracking; (11) consultation for exercise program development.

Website:

https://ucfitlab.com

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The Immune Assessment Core (IAC) is a CLIA certified laboratory that provides comprehensive immunological testing services for basic, clinical, and translational studies. The IAC provides both standardized and customized multi-parameter flow cytometry, multiplexed immunoassays and cellular immune function assays to evaluate the innate and adaptive immune status of study subjects. Validated tests include comprehensive immunophenotyping panels, multiplexed cytokine/chemokine detection in body fluids or culture supernatants, several ELISA assays, allo- and virus-specific T cell activation, T and B cell proliferation to antigens and mitogens, NK cell cytotoxicity, and granulocyte/monocyte oxidative burst. The core also performs customized assay development to meet the investigators’ needs.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/iac

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The Immunogenetics Center provides comprehensive testing for organ and tissue transplantation to physicians, patients, pharmaceutical companies, and other medical facilities. It is one of the leading laboratories in the world, providing state-of-the-art technology and methodology with a comprehensive quality assurance program to ensure accuracy in testing. Services include: (1) HLA-class I (A,B,C) and class II (DR, DQ, DP) gene polymorphism typing, (2) histocompatibility testing (HLA antibody and identification testing and lymphocyte crossmatch testing) and non-HLA antibodies (AT1R, MICA, Autoantibody Panel, Endothelial Crossmatch, (3) KIR and MICA gene typing, (4) HLA and Disease Association testing and (4) immune assessment to alloantigens and pathogens.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/uic-hla

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Two previous research laboratories, the Clinical and Translational Research Laboratory (CTRL) and the Clinical Immunology Research Laboratory (CIRL) have been restructured into the Pathology Research Portal (PRP). The PRP is a CAP accredited laboratory. This new addition to the Center for Pathology Research Services (CPRS) functions as the biospecimen liaison between researchers and clinical testing, and provides coordination for sample receiving, accessioning, processing, short term and long term storage, dispatching to multiple core facilities for testing, and result retrieving. PRP also provides shipping and temporary storage services, and can also provide customized services to meet various research needs.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/ctrl

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The Pulmonary Function and Respiratory Physiology Laboratory, part of the Airway & Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, specializes in COPD research from pediatrics through geriatrics and houses a multitude of spirometers, oscillometers, body plethysmograph equipment for measuring spirometry, lung volumes, diffusing capacity, and bronchodilator challenge to assess lung function. Our facilities include clinical and research subject encounters, interviews, resting ECG’s, and blood and sputum samplings. Moreover, physical performance tests such as the six-minute-walk-test, hand grip strength test and short-physical-performance battery can be assessed. The lab is highly-experienced in multicenter trials using PFT and has acted as the primary reading and quality control site in many clinical trials.

Website:

https://www.uclahealth.org/pulmonary/copd

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Our primary service is human MRI research scanning; the rate is 600/hour, and we have a full suite of advanced pulse sequences for structural functional, diffusion, blood flow and spectroscopic imaging. We also have EEG systems in shielded rooms, and MRI compatible EEG.

Website:

https://www.semel.ucla.edu/staglin

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The Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Clinical and Research Service in the Semel Institute operates seven TMS devices (both Magventure and Magstim) that are capable of a full range of clinical and research TMS procedures, including sham-coil stimulation. The Service also is equipped with a neuronavigation system that allows MRI-guidance of coil placement as well as TMS-compatible EEG that allows recording during stimulation procedures.

Website:

http://neuromodulation.ucla.edu/

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The Translational Pathology Core Laboratory (TPCL) provides an array of pathology-related services in support of basic, translational, and clinical research. Expert consultative services are offered to investigators in pathology-related study design, tissue selection, microscopic interpretation, immunohistochemistry/in situ hybridization, laser capture microdissection, digital image analysis, and IRB-related tissue questions. Services include: (1) tissue procurement, storage, and provision, (2) histology-related services, (3) immunohistochemistry, (4) in situ hybridization, (5) digital imaging and image analysis, (6) laser capture microdissection, (7) pathology consultative services, and (8) advice on research protocols, safety issues, and IRB applications.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/tpcl

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Imaging and image analysis services include: (1) full slide scanning of human and animal cells/tissues on glass slides, including either chromogenic or fluorescent multispectral scanning, (2) image analysis of digital images generated with single or multiple probes in visible light or fluorescent wavelength ranges. The core also has a number of state-of-the art imaging and molecular instrumentation (laser-capture microdissection, nanostring, confocal, lightsheet microscope etc.) that are available to researchers.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/biobank-translational.html

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The Cedars-Sinai Research Imaging Core (RIC) is an advanced imaging center dedicated to providing high-quality imaging services tailored to the unique needs of the research community from rodents and large animals to human subjects. We offer a Clinical 3T MRI (Vida, Siemens) and simultaneous Clinical PET/MR (Biograph, Siemens) for human and large animal subjects, as well as 9.4T Small Animal MRI (Bruker), in-Vivo Small Animal/Specimen CT (Scanco Viva40 and PerkElmer Quantum GX2), Cryofluoresence Tomography (EMIT) Optical (IVIS Spectrum and Luminar XR), Small Animal image guided irradiator (X-RAD SmART), micro-ultrasound imaging system (Vevo 3100) and Small Animal 4Dx Lung imaging services for research.

Our facility is staffed with highly trained and experienced personnel, including expert research scientists, technologists, registered nurses, and additional support staff to ensure the most positive experience. We also offer core IRB/IACUC protocol support and seed grants to help get your research started quickly, and a dedicated research PACS and post-processing software to support data transfer, image analysis and data processing. In addition to research imaging, the Siemens systems are licensed for clinical use to allow standard-of-care, diagnostic imaging performed in conjunction with research imaging. We welcome and look forward to working with all CTSI investigators.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/imaging.html

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The Bioimaging and Immunotherapeutics Research Core provides four major resources to researchers: (1) the BD Calibur flow cytometer facility, which employs a dual-laser (argon and helium-neon), 4-color FACS Calibur flow cytometer and cell sorter to facilitate the molecular and physiological examination of individual cells and enable collection of living cells for further study; (2) the IVIS Lumina II system, a high-sensitivity, in vivo imaging technology platform that enables non-invasive visualization of both bioluminescent and fluorescent signals, tracking of cellular and therapeutic activities within a living organism in real time, and detection of signals from tissue, petri dishes, and microtiter plates; (3) a Luminex multiplex analyzer that utilizes xMAP microsphere technology and has the capability of performing up to 100 assays simultaneously in a single well of a microtiter plate; and (4) a Biotek Synergy 2 multi-mode microplate reader, a combination luminometer-fluorometer-absorbance detector capable of reading 96-well and larger plates that utilizes both filter-based and monochromatic-based light-detection technology.

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The mission of the Advanced Light Microscopy and Spectroscopy Laboratory (ALMS) is to provide consultation, services, and support for the application of novel microscopic and spectroscopic methods and advanced image analysis techniques for the study of macromolecules, cellular dynamics, and nano-scale characterization of bio-materials. The facilities provide a collection of high-level, customized fluorescence microscopes and small-animal imaging devices that provide the ability to study biological processes with high spatial and temporal resolution in whole organisms and in living cells down to the single molecule detection level with nanometer accuracy. Services include: (1) wide-field fluorescence imaging microscopy, (2) confocal and two-photon laser scanning microscopy (point scanning and spinning disk), (3) fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS), (4) fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), (5) microscopic and macroscopic fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) with time-correlated-single-photon-counting and near-infrared detection, (6) super-resolution microscopy (STED and STORM), (7) microscopic and macroscopic (small animal) spectral unmixing, (8) laser capture microdissection, (9) light-sheet microscopy and (10) image analysis.

Website:

https://alms.cnsi.ucla.edu/

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The Ahmanson-Lovelace Brain Mapping Center is committed to facilitating the development and growth of the field of Brain Mapping, a sub-discipline of neuroscience which uses brain imaging to better understand the structure and function of the human brain in health and alterations associated with disease. It is comprised of resources located in the core facility, the Ahmanson-Lovelace Brain Mapping Center, as well as additional resources housed in the Reed Neurological Research Center and the Neuroscience Research Building. Services include: (1) imaging (MRI), (2) NeuroModulation, (3) data analysis, and (4) a data center.

Website:

http://www.bmap.ucla.edu/services/

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The Biological Chemistry Imaging Facility (BCIF) provides resources for data acquisition and analysis for radioactive, fluorescent, and photographic samples as well as digital imaging and document production. BCIF provides round-the-clock access to a cluster of modern equipment such as Typhoons 9410 and 9400 Variable Mode Imagers, Storm 820 and 840 imagers, Laser Densitometer, Gel Documentation System, color printers, and high-resolution scanners. In addition, BCIF provides unlimited scientific data storage space on its secure storage arrays to all participating labs and access to a number of software packages for data analysis and digital data processing.

Website:

http://www.biolchem.ucla.edu/biological-chemistry-imaging-facility

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The Brain Research Institute Electron Microscopy Core Facility houses a JEOL 100CX transmission electron microscope. A Reichert Ultracut ultramicrotome is also available for use by trained personnel. Services include: (1) fixation and embedding of specimens, thin sectioning, (2) use of the electron microscopes (with or without assistance), (3) gold labeling, (4) negative stain, and (5) light microscopy of plastic embedded materials. The facility offers advice on appropriate preparatory procedures and other technical matters. Training and assistance in the use of the electron microscope is also offered.

Website:

http://www.bri.ucla.edu/research/core-facilities

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The Brain Research Institute Microscopic Techniques Laboratory offers instructions in microscopic techniques and assistance in tissue specimen preparation including rodents perfusion for light microscopic observation. Histological procedures available include: (1) some immunocytochemistry staining, (2) special stains, (3) paraffin sectioning, (4) vibratome sectioning, (5) cryostat sectioning, (6) plastic embedding and (6) sectioning. The laboratory also provides staining setups, a cryostat, microtomes, a vibratome, and a Nikon photomicroscope for use by trained personnel.

Website:

http://www.bri.ucla.edu/research/core-facilities

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The Electron Imaging Center for Nanomachines (EICN) provides state-of-the-art electron microscopy instruments and assisted usage services. Highly experienced staff provides necessary training and can help users address complex electron imaging needs. EICN offers advanced electron imaging techniques for visualizing materials, nanomachines, and cellular structures at atomic or nanometer scales in 2D and 3D. In addition, our latest integrated iCorr technology enables a streamlined approach to correlative microscopy to perform both fluorescence light and electron microscopy for biological research. Services available: (1) instrument training, (2) self usage, (3) assisted usage, and (4) data processing.

Website:

http://www.eicn.ucla.edu/

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The Nano and Pico Characterization (NPC) Laboratory at CNSI provides a unique collection of analytical and imaging tools along with expert technical support to enable the physicochemical characterization of nanomaterials and systems under a wide range of applications and experimental conditions. Technical capabilities include surface analysis by Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM); hydrodynamic size and surface charge analysis by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Zeta Potential (ZP) measurements; elemental and chemical analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The NPC team provides core services including: (1) consultation for effective decision-making based on your needs, (2) application-specific training and assisted measurements, (3) sample preparation (e.g., acid digestion) and sample analysis.

Website:

https://npc.cnsi.ucla.edu/

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The Preclinical Imaging Technology Center provides state-of-the-art imaging for small animals (mice, rats, rabbits, etc). It functions both as a shared preclinical imaging resource for UCLA researchers and as a hub for emerging imaging research and technology development. The same technologies and services are also available to the larger research community including other academic institutes and industry groups through contract work. The Imaging Center, operating through its sales-and-service, offers microPET, microCT, high resolution specimen CT, MRI, bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging modalities and complementary in vitro/ex vivo services including cell-based assays, biodistribution, digital autoradiography and dosimetry. Companion PET tracer radiochemistry and radiolabeling services are available in-house and is supported by on-campus cyclotron facilities. Technical and analytical support are available throughout the study process: initial consultation, experimental design and optimization, imaging protocols and techniques, post-acquisition data analysis and interpretation. Training and staff assistance are available. The Imaging Center is part of the Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging and is supported by the expertise of its faculty members, world leaders in various imaging sciences.

Website:

https://imaging.crump.ucla.edu/

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Our primary service is human MRI research scanning; the rate is 600/hour, and we have a full suite of advanced pulse sequences for structural functional, diffusion, blood flow and spectroscopic imaging. We also have EEG systems in shielded rooms, and MRI compatible EEG.

Website:

https://www.semel.ucla.edu/staglin

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The Translational Research Imaging Center (TRIC) at UCLA is a state-of-the- art, pre-clinical and human cadaver, diagnostic and interventional imaging center. With over 25 years of expertise, our team of physicians, scientists, fellows, technologists, and veterinary staff support pre-clinical studies and imaging procedures across the field of medicine. TRIC is dedicated to the development and testing of new medical devices, imaging technologies, drug therapies as well as novel treatments. Our dedicated staff include: Board-certified Interventional Radiologists, Board-certified Radiologists, MR Physicists, Veterinarians, Statisticians, and Experienced Research Assistants. The TRIC Lab imaging equipment and support systems include: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – Siemens Magnetom 3T Prisma MRI whole-body system, X-Ray Angiography – Siemens Artis Zeego Angiogram Suite with robotic C arm with 3D rotational angiography and DynaCT capabilities, Computed Tomography (CT) – Siemens Somatom Definition 64 Dual Source scanner, X-Ray Angiography – Philips Allura Xper FD-10 Angiogram Suite with floor mounted C arm with 3D rotational angiography capabilities, iU22 Philips Ultrasound system for general imaging, PACS data management system, observation and recovery suites, multi-modality 3D-image post-processing, High-Definition video integration for Telepresence video conferencing.

Website:

https://www.uclahealth.org/radiology/pre-clinical-services

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The Molecular Therapeutics Core provides a cross-disciplinary resource for researchers engaged in structural biology, therapeutics development, and drug discovery research. Services include: (1) pilot recombinant protein production, (2) large-scale protein production, (3) biophysical characterization, (4) molecular modeling and drug design, and (5) x-ray crystallographic services. Initial consultations are available free-of-charge.

For more information, including a complete list of services and available instrumentation (Malvern PEAQ-ITC calorimetery for thermodynamic analysis of protein-ligand interactions recently acquired), please visit the core website.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Research/Research-Cores/Molecular-Therapeutics-Core/

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The Proteomics, Metabolomics and Mitochondrial Function Core is defined by technically diverse instrumentation with the most advanced technologies available to the fields of proteomics, metabolomics and quantitative targeted protein assays. These technologies are dedicated to the identification and quantitative analysis of analytes from all types of biological samples including whole blood, plasma, CSF, cells or tissues and include samples originating from cell culture, animal models or patient-derived research studies. Services include a wide variety of discovery proteomics assays, identification of co- and post-translational modifications (phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation citrullination and more), as well as the fields leading methodologies for protein dynamics and protein-protein interactions.

A selection of targeted mass spectrometry-based assays is available for quantification of protein panels associated with important cellular pathways and functions. In addition to many mass spectrometry-based assays available, the core is equipped with two of the field’s leading immunoassay platforms, (1) ultra-sensitive digital ELISA, SIMOA HD-1 Analyzer (2) high-performance electrochemiluminescence ELISA platform, MESO QuickPlex SQ 12. All Proteomics and Metabolomic Core services include data analysis and a data release consultation. Advanced bioinformatic services for biological pathway analyzes and multi-omic data integration are also available through the core bioinformatic services.

To complement molecular phenotyping of mitochondria by metabolomics and proteomics, we recently incorporated instrumentation for seahorse respirometry and support a suite of seahorse XFp instruments. These respirometry platforms enable quantification of cellular metabolism by glycolytic and oxidative pathways and in response to numerous nutrient sources and perturbations. Our Mitochondria and Metabolomics experts wield expertise to advise on complex interrogations of mitochondrial biology and we offer consultation and support on techniques for in-depth mitochondrial characterization beyond respirometry, to include mitochondrial morphometry, turnover rates, membrane potential, mPTP susceptibility, cytochrome c release, free radical production, mtDNA sequencing and 8- oxo-dG analysis.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/proteomics-metabolomics.html

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The Biomedical Mass Spectrometry Facility (BMSF) supports clinical research projects in clinical nutrition and metabolic research. The BMSF specializes in experimental design using stable isotopes and analytical methods (13C carbon tracing) for physiological or metabolic investigations. It provides unique services in isotopomer distribution analysis of metabolites (tracer-based metabolomics) using GC/MS (or LC-TOF). In addition, the BMSF offers collaborations in the area of metabolite profiling and modeling of metabolic systems with tracers. Services provided include: (1) sample preparation, (2) quantitative and qualitative analysis by GC/MS, IRMS and LC/MS, (3) consultation, (4) collaboration in metabolite profiling and tracer-based metabolomics, and (5) training on approved projects.

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The Guenther Molecular Biology Core supports investigators performing morphological, biochemical, cell and molecular biological studies both at cellular and subcellular levels. Consultation and training services are provided for localization of genes, RNA transcripts and proteins in complex tissues as well subcellular distribution in tissues. The laboratory houses five types of state-of the art equipment: an Agilent Bioanalyzer, two Applied Biosystem StepOne Plus Sequence Detection Systems, one Applied Biosystems 7900HT 384 well real-time quantitative PCR system, two TaqMan PCR platforms (96 well format), one Leica Confocal SP8 platform, two flow cytometers (one BD LSR II and one FACSymphony A5). The Guenther Core also has a facility for immunohistochemistry studies.

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The Institute for Translational Genomics and Population Sciences consists of 3 core laboratories—the Laboratory for Biochemistry, Molecular Phenotyping, and Cell Line Repository; the Laboratory for Statistical and Mathematical Genetics; and the Laboratory for Molecular Genetics, Bioinformatics, and High Throughput Genotyping. The Genomics Institute Faculty have been extremely active in large scale genetic studies and both single cohort and in multi-cohort (and multi-ethnic) consortium efforts that have identified many genetic loci for cardiometabolic traits. We have contributed to the design stages, to performance of biochemical phenotyping, to large scale genotyping, and to statistical genetic analysis. The many loci we and our collaborators have identified are being utilized by ourselves and others to generate multi-loci genetic risk scores as powerful tools to dissect disease etiology and to perform risk assessment in populations. Besides our involvement in many large scale genome wide association studies (GWAS), we are now actively involved in large scale whole genome sequencing studies (WGS) and Multi-Omics studies.

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The IMTC services include (but are not limited to): (1) consultation and troubleshooting in techniques for efficient gene delivery, as well as cloning and functional protein expression in mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo, (2) virus production such as Lentivirus, Adenovirus-Associated virus, (3) consultation and to perform customized gene expression profiling, cytological phenotype profiling, and high-throughput molecular screening studies by utilizing high-throughput and highly automated robotic systems. The Integrated Molecular Technologies Core (IMTC) is therefore intended to serve as a comprehensive resource that will provide access to state-of-the-art molecular tools and thereby aims to facilitate the research activities of CURE: DDRCC investigators.

Website:

https://www.ucladdrcc.med.ucla.edu/cores/integrated-molecular-technologies-core-imtc-and-microbiome-sub-core

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Provides 3-dimensional structure of small molecules in solid crystals via X-ray crystallography. Equipped for characterization of polycrystalline solid materials using powder and thin film diffraction techniques. The laboratory is a full service facility where staff deals with all aspects of service from crystal selection to publication of results. In-house training is a requirement if you wish to use the equipment yourself. Part of the UCLA Molecular Instrumentation Center, which is a campus wide facility open to the UCLA community. The facility also collaborates with personnel from other universities and industry both locally and internationally.

Website:

http://www.mic.ucla.edu/X-rays-Diffraction

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The UCLA Lipidomics Laboratory provides the highest quality of quantitative lipid measurements from biological samples including cells, tissue, serum, and media. The lab offers automated sample preparation and two distinct mass spectrometry platforms: 1) shotgun lipidomics providing measurement of 1400 complex lipid species and 2) a fatty acid and sterols analysis compatible with isotopic labeling. Our full-service lab provides data analysis (including computational modeling of lipid flux parameters) and consultation services.

Website:

http://www.uclalipidomics.net/

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Consultation and technical assistance available to researchers prior to, and following, experiments. Evaluation of sample via Dynamic Light Scattering. Automatic setup of 4000 crystallization conditions per hour using 500uL of sample. (Hanging or Sitting Drops). The Mosquito from TTP, Labcyte ECHO525 and Tecan GENESIS are used for Liquid Dispensing.  Capable of distinguishing between organic and inorganic crystals using a sophisticated UV/vis microscope. Optimization of crystallization conditions. Storage of plates in temperature controlled incubators at 4, 15, and 20C. Optimization of crystallization conditions using a library of 1,500 commercial compounds. Affinity and Kinetics Characterization with the ForteBio OCTET Red96 instrument. The Labcyte ECHO 525 is used for acoustic liquid dispensing. Production of stereolithography files from Pymol, 3D design of labware, 3D printing.

Website:

http://www.doe-mbi.ucla.edu/crystallization/

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The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Lab at the Molecular Instrumentation Center (MIC) is heavily used with broad participation of users from many disciplines. Researchers from many different research groups in 12 different campus departments, make use of the instrumentation in the NMR lab after a thorough training process. The major equipment available consists of six NMR spectrometers: Bruker AV600, DRX500, AV500, AV400, AV300 for liquid samples and AV600 for solid-state samples. Most spectrometers are equipped with broadband probes covering frequencies from 31P to 15N, the AV500 is equipped with a cryoprobe capable of only 1H and 13C experiments, and 19F experiments are available on the AV300 and AV400. Variable temperature and multipulse experiments are also available.

Website:

http://www.mic.ucla.edu/magnetic-resonance-spectroscopy

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The Mass Spectrometry Laboratory provides a wide range of sample characterization techniques for researchers. Mass spectrometry services include: (1) a variety of ionization methods including electron, chemical, matrix assisted laser desorption, direct analysis in real time, electrospray, and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization, (2) a variety of analyzers including time of flight, quadrupole, ion trap, Orbitrap, and several tandem combinations of mass analyzers, and (3) microflow, nanoflow and regular flow liquid chromatography. For proteomics studies, equipment is available for running 1-D and 2-D gels and protein/peptide identification. In addition, the facility provides consultation for sample preparation, experimental design, analysis of protein expression patterns, data mining, and operation of the various instruments. This laboratory is a part of the UCLA Molecular Instrumentation Center.

Website:

http://www.mic.ucla.edu/mass-spectrometry

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The Materials Characterization Laboratory offers thermal, optical, microscopic, electrical, and magnetic characterization of materials and elemental analysis of surfaces via a wide range of instruments including: (1) light scattering spectrometers, (2) several spectrophotometers, (3) scanning probe microscopes (AFM/STM), (4) a SQUID magnetometer, (5) a scanning electron microscope, and (6) an X-Ray photoelectron spectrometer. This laboratory is a part of the UCLA Molecular Instrumentation Center.

Website:

http://www.mic.ucla.edu/materials-characterization

Last modified 02-01-2022

The UCLA Metabolomics Center enables investigators to study metabolism with a particular focus on central carbon metabolism and several branch pathways (glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, TCA cycle, nucleos(t)ide synthesis, etc.). Metabolite analysis can be performed on a variety of specimens (e.g. cultured cells, culture medium, blood, urine, tissue). Generally, relative amounts of metabolites are measured, but absolute amounts can be determined as well. Tracing experiments using stable isotope-labeled metabolites (D, C-13, N-15) are routinely performed. For data analysis, relative amounts of metabolites as well as mass isotopologue distributions (if isotope tracing was performed) are calculated. Results are illustrated using bar graphs, heatmaps, principal component analysis, and mapping to Cytoscape maps. Customized analysis is available.

Website:

http://systems.crump.ucla.edu/metabolomics_center/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Molecular Screening Shared Resource (MSSR) is a core facility open to all research labs on campus. The services provided include the use of high throughput screening (HTS) technology, a total of roughly 200,000 compounds in various libraries, arrayed cDNA, siRNA, shRNA and CRISPR sets for the mouse/humane genome. Individual clones are any of these libraries (including CRISPR) are available. The MSSR is currently funded by the JCCC and the California NanoSystems Institute as well as grants from the NIH and DOD.

Website:

https://www.mssr.ucla.edu

Last modified 02-01-2022

The NMR Core Facility provides advanced NMR spectrometers and related equipment for the study of macromolecular structure and dynamics in solution by experienced users. In this capacity the core facility primarily provides the research tools in which to perform detailed measurements on complex biological systems. Non-expert members of the DOE laboratory receive access to NMR spectroscopy for more routine applications. These applications include: screening wild-type and mutated protein samples to determine their structural integrity, making small molecule binding affinity measurements, and temperature and denaturant studies of protein stability.

Website:

https://www.doe-mbi.ucla.edu/nuclear-magnetic-resonance-nmr-core-technology-center/

Last modified 02-01-2022

Provides consultation, training, and access to and technical assistance for metabolomics, proteomics (top-down and bottom-up) and targeted small molecule quantitation using mass spectrometry and chromatography.

Website:

https://massspec.chem.ucla.edu/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Protein Expression Technology Center (PETC) was founded in 1994 to facilitate the expression and purification of proteins for structure/function studies. The PETC provides support in all aspects of protein expression from cloning through expression optimization and protein purification. The PETC is a UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics facility but is open to all researchers.

Website:

http://www.doe-mbi.ucla.edu/expression/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The UCLA Proteome Research Center is a full-service technology center that offers a comprehensive suite of proteomic services to the UCLA community and other partnering institutions. By bringing together state-of-the-art instrumentation and high- level technical staff, the goal of the facility is to transform traditional experimental paradigms by providing investigators access to powerful analytical workflows for systems-level characterization of complex biological systems, biomarker discovery and validation, and protein complex characterization. Available services include: (1) complex protein mixture analysis using single and multidimensional fractionation strategies, (2) peptide quantitation using SILAC, iTRAQ / TMT, and label-free methodologies, (3) targeted and global PTM enrichment and characterization approaches, (4) identification of protein interaction networks using affinity-based isolation and proximity tagging techniques, and (5) targeted proteomic assay development using parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) for relative and absolute quantitation.

Website:

http://www.uclaproteomics.net/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The UCLA-DOE and Biochemistry Shared Instrumentation core facility provides the UCLA research community open access to sophisticated equipment for biochemical studies. These facilities house a wide array of detection systems useful for analysis, quantification, and identification of all types of macromolecules and their molecular interactions. It also carries equipment for cell culturing, harvesting, lysis, and high-speed centrifugation useful for biomolecule preparation.

Website:

http://biochem.cores.ucla.edu/general_info/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The UCLA Nanofabrication Laboratory (UCLA NanoLab) is a shared-use clean-room that provides state-of-the-art equipment, facilities, and technical expertise for fabricating the most demanding nano-scale structures and devices. The UCLA NanoLab was created to support all aspects of nanofabrication-related research and to advance research and learning in nano-science. Services include: (1) e-beam lithography, (2) optical lithography, (3) thin-film deposition, (4) dry etch, (5) thermal processing, (6) metrology, and (7) access to integrated bio-suites.

Website:

http://nanolab.ucla.edu/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The X-ray Crystallography Core Technology Center in the Department of Engineering provides state-of-the-art resources to researchers, enabling the detailed 3-D analysis of biological macromolecules that play essential roles in human health. The facility operates as a full service core that offers access to sophisticated equipment and technologies as well as advice and technical assistance in sample preparation, data collection, processing, atomic refinement, and modeling. Services include: (1) aid in crystallization, (2) X-ray characterization of crystals, (3) In-House data collection of X-ray and micro Electron Diffraction and at the synchrotron, (4) processing and quality analysis of data, and (5) structure determination and display.

Website:

http://www.doe-mbi.ucla.edu/x-ray-crystallography-core-technology-center/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Computer Shop provides technical support for research, teaching, and administrative functions.  One IT Programmer/Analyst is on staff with expertise in Macintosh, IBM clone computers, peripherals, printers, and network interfacing, including installation, setup, upgrades, demonstration, troubleshooting, repair, and modification services. The Computer Shop also provides design, development, and installation of local area networks, specifying hubs, network cards, cable types, and software. Consultation is provided to determine appropriate hardware/software solutions.

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Last modified 02-01-2022

The Translational Research Core provides pathology and molecular services which include grossing of animal tissue, histopathology, tissue microarray generation, and the development of protocols for new antibodies and in-situ hybridization probes. Imaging and image analysis services include: (1) full slide scanning of human and animal cells/tissues on glass slides, including either chromogenic or fluorescent multispectral scanning, (2) image analysis of digital images generated with single or multiple probes in visible light or fluorescent wavelength ranges. The core also has a number of state-of-the art imaging and molecular instrumentation (laser-capture microdissection, nanostring, confocal, lightsheet microscope etc.) that are available to researchers.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/biobank-translational.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Biobehavioral Research Core (BRC) assists in all aspects of behavioral testing in rodents, including the execution of behavioral tests, experimental design development, as well as analysis and interpretation of data. The BRC employs a modern suite of testing equipment and methodologies, to address a wide range of behavioral testing domains, including: sensory and motor function, cognition, affective behavior, social behavior, pain, and stereotype/repetitive behavior. In addition, powerful user-directed and automated software packages are available to track and analyze animal behavior in real-time or from pre-recorded video files.

The BRC offers multiple services for the assessment of rodent behavior: (1) Comprehensive testing service: BRC expert staff conducts the behavioral testing and provides the organized data to the investigator; (2) Testing assistance service: BRC expert staff works in collaboration with client to help with behavioral testing and data organization; (3) Training service: our staff provides training and/or direct supervision to the investigator’s laboratory staff. At completion trainees are issued a training certificate detailing the steps to full proficiency; (4) Facility and/or equipment use service: the investigator’s laboratory staff uses BRC facilities and/or testing equipment. This service requires that the client study staff complete adequate training (provided by BRC staff) and obtain a training certificate of full proficiency. BRC staff will provide indirect supervision; (5) Custom method development and data analysis: BRC staff will work with clients to develop customized testing methods to address the unique characteristics of their rodent disease models or research questions. BRC also offers data analysis services, including assistance with interpretation of results. 

Please visit the BRC website for a complete list of available services, instrumentation, and detailed information about data processing and analyses.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Research/Research-Cores/Biobehavioral-Research-Core/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Cedars-Sinai Research Imaging Core (RIC) is an advanced imaging center dedicated to providing high-quality imaging services tailored to the unique needs of the research community from rodents and large animals to human subjects. We offer a Clinical 3T MRI (Vida, Siemens) and simultaneous Clinical PET/MR (Biograph, Siemens) for human and large animal subjects, as well as 9.4T Small Animal MRI (Bruker), in-Vivo Small Animal/Specimen CT (Scanco Viva40 and PerkElmer Quantum GX2), Cryofluoresence Tomography (EMIT) Optical (IVIS Spectrum and Luminar XR), Small Animal image guided irradiator (X-RAD SmART), micro-ultrasound imaging system (Vevo 3100) and Small Animal 4Dx Lung imaging services for research. 

Our facility is staffed with highly trained and experienced personnel, including expert research scientists, technologists, registered nurses, and additional support staff to ensure the most positive experience. We also offer core IRB/IACUC protocol support and seed grants to help get your research started quickly, and a dedicated research PACS and post-processing software to support data transfer, image analysis and data processing. In addition to research imaging, the Siemens systems are licensed for clinical use to allow standard-of-care, diagnostic imaging performed in conjunction with research imaging. We welcome and look forward to working with all CTSI investigators.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/imaging.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Rodent Genetics Core provides specialized services for the production of genetically modified animals. The core offers high-quality, specific pathogen-free transgenic and knockout (knock-in) mice focused on genes of specific interest to a broad range of biomedical research projects to investigators at Cedars-Sinai, as well as affiliated and outside institutions. The core also helps design the DNA constructs for pronuclear microinjection or gene targeting with the most up-to-date genetic technologies such as the CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing system.

The core also offers assisted fertilization services followed by embryo transfer to save poorly breeding mutant mouse lines, as well as cryopreservation of embryos and sperm for conservation of genetic resources. The core encourages interactive usage of these animals among Cedars-Sinai or CTSI affiliated investigators.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/rodent-genetics.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Biobank is a state-of-the-art biorepository that: (1) collects human biospecimens based on institutional priorities for biomedical research and also for investigator-driven requests, (2) provides tissue, blood, and body fluid collection, processing, and storage services, (3) provides a uniform, institution-wide, consent process for facilitating research studies, (4) provides clinical annotation services and fulfills custom requests for chart review, and (5) aids in developing protocols for human biospecimen procurement and processing.

The Translational Research Core provides pathology and molecular services which include grossing of human/animal tissue, histopathology, tissue microarray generation, and the development of protocols for new antibodies and in-situ hybridization probes. Imaging and image analysis services include: (1) full slide scanning of human and animal cells/tissues on glass slides, including either chromogenic or fluorescent multispectral scanning, (2) image analysis of digital images generated with single or multiple probes in visible light or fluorescent wavelength ranges. The core also has a number of state-of-the art imaging and molecular instrumentation (laser-capture microdissection, nanostring, confocal, lightsheet microscope etc.) that are available to researchers.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/biobank-translational.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The CSMC Flow Cytometry Core is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment for cell analysis and sorting, utilizing fluorescent probes targeted to specific cell-associated molecules to characterize the diversity and function of complex cell populations. Fluorescence-activated cell sorters can also individually identify and isolate live cells with a defined phenotype that can later be expanded and/or further studied. The core is equipped to handle biohazardous samples and offers both, cell population and single cell sorting. The core is open 24/7 for analysis and can provide flexible hours for sorting to accommodate experimental needs. The core also provides training for new users and offers consulting for experimental design, for a fee.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/flow-cytometry.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The HLA and Immunogenetics Laboratory provides state-of-the-art histocompatibility and immunogenetics testing for solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The HLA Laboratory also provides histocompatibility testing for non-transplant services including disease association and drug hypersensitivity. Services include: (1) intermediate and high-resolution HLA typing by next generation sequencing, (2) HLA and non-HLA antibody detection by solid phase or cell-based assays, (3) KIR and MICA gene typing, (4) chimerism testing, and (5) other immune assessment.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/transplant-center/programs/immunogenetics.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (iPSC) Core at the Cedars-Sinai Biomanufacturing Center uses the latest techniques to reprogram, expand, and characterize human iPSCs from human skin or blood tissues of healthy subjects and diseased patients. iPSCs are then turned into specific cells of the human body including components of the nervous system, eyes, blood, bones, heart, gut, liver, and pancreas, for use by researchers. Applications of this technology include human disease modeling-in-a-dish, developing human reporter cell lines via genetic modification, drug screening on pathological human cell types, and potentially developing cell replacement or regenerative therapies. The iPSC Core offers: (1) iPSC generation and characterization (QC) services, (2) SNP array to asses cytogenetic abnormalities, (3) bio-banking and iPSC thawing, (4) imaging services, (5) extensive iPSC line catalog, (6) cell differentiation services, (7) gene editing, and (8) iPSC culture training.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/areas/biomanufacturing.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Proteomics, Metabolomics and Mitochondrial Function Core is defined by technically diverse instrumentation with the most advanced technologies available to the fields of proteomics, metabolomics and quantitative targeted protein assays. These technologies are dedicated to the identification and quantitative analysis of analytes from all types of biological samples including whole blood, plasma, CSF, cells or tissues and include samples originating from cell culture, animal models or patient-derived research studies. Services include a wide variety of discovery proteomics assays, identification of co- and post-translational modifications (phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation citrullination and more), as well as the fields leading methodologies for protein dynamics and protein-protein interactions.

A selection of targeted mass spectrometry-based assays is available for quantification of protein panels associated with important cellular pathways and functions. In addition to many mass spectrometry-based assays available, the core is equipped with two of the field’s leading immunoassay platforms, (1) ultra-sensitive digital ELISA, SIMOA HD-1 Analyzer (2) high-performance electrochemiluminescence ELISA platform, MESO QuickPlex SQ 12. All Proteomics and Metabolomic Core services include data analysis and a data release consultation. Advanced bioinformatic services for biological pathway analyzes and multi-omic data integration are also available through the core bioinformatic services.

To complement molecular phenotyping of mitochondria by metabolomics and proteomics, we recently incorporated instrumentation for seahorse respirometry and support a suite of seahorse XFp instruments. These respirometry platforms enable quantification of cellular metabolism by glycolytic and oxidative pathways and in response to numerous nutrient sources and perturbations. Our Mitochondria and Metabolomics experts wield expertise to advise on complex interrogations of mitochondrial biology and we offer consultation and support on techniques for in-depth mitochondrial characterization beyond respirometry, to include mitochondrial morphometry, turnover rates, membrane potential, mPTP susceptibility, cytochrome c release, free radical production, mtDNA sequencing and 8- oxo-dG analysis.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/proteomics-metabolomics.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Applied Genomics, Computation & Translational Core (AGCT Core) is a fully equipped, automated, high-throughput genomics facility offering the latest in next generation sequencing technologies, including single cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, and bulk cell genomics. We generate and interpret single cell omics, genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and metagenomics information for basic and clinical research. As a 10x Genomic Certified Service Provider, the AGCT Core specializes in single cell omics applications, including scRNA-Seq, scATAC-Seq, scV(D)J immune profiling, and scMultiome. We offer sample preparation for such assays, from fresh or frozen tissue, cryopreserved cells, fresh-frozen tissue blocks, and FFPE tissue blocks. The AGCT Core also specializes in Visium spatial transcriptomics for fresh-frozen or for FFPE tissue. Cryostat and microtome sectioning services are also available. Single cell DNA sequencing via the Mission Bio Tapestri system is also offered by the AGCT Core. The AGCT Core also offers bulk cell mRNA-Seq and total RNA-Seq for all sample types, including low-input or degraded RNA. miRNA-Seq is also available.  Our genomics offerings include whole genome and whole exome sequencing.  Our epigenomics services include ATAC-Seq and whole genome bisulfite sequencing.  For metagenomics, we offer amplicon sequencing of the V1-V2 region or all regions (V1-V9) of the 16S rRNA gene.  We also offer ITS amplicon sequencing for mycobiome studies. Sequencing-only services are also available.

We offer complete laboratory and bioinformatics analysis pipelines to accommodate standard needs, as well as work actively in collaborations to offer more sophisticated or custom solutions on most omics-wide investigations. We have set up solid pipelines associated with each sequencing service for primary data processing, including read alignment, quality control, and expression quantification (bulk & single-cell RNA-seq), variant calling (WGS/WES) or peak calling (bulk and single-cell ATAC-seq/CUT&TAG/ChIP-seq). We provide analysis for the latest in spatial transcriptomics technologies include 10x Genomics Visium for both fresh frozen and FFPE samples, as well as the GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler. Our pipelines fully support analysis of multiomic data include 10x Genomics’ multiome and CITE-seq, and we have extensive experience analyzing data from various cell hashing techniques. We have also developed packages for in-depth, customized computational analyses driven by specific biological questions defined by investigators. Furthermore, we provide support on interpretation and presentation of results, generating extensive reports with publication-ready images, and drafting of bioinformatics and statistical methodology for manuscripts. We provide lifelong data curation and cloud storage for collaborators. 

Please visit the AGCT Core’s website for a complete list of available services, instrumentation, and detailed information about data processing and analyses.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/genomics.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Biostatistics Core is a resource for biostatistical consulting and related methodological research and serves as a focal point from which investigators may draw statistical expertise for planning, management, and analysis of their studies. Faculty and staff at the core: (1) coordinate and manage statistical activities at Cedars-Sinai to ensure that investigators have ready access to statistical consultation and support, (2) provide statistical expertise in the design of experiments and studies, including research proposal development, sample size determination, randomization procedures and plans for interim reviews and final analysis, (3) assist with the writing of statistical components of manuscripts, (4) review the integrity and statistical soundness of all studies involving human subjects, (5) provide statistical analysis for projects using appropriate statistical and computing methodologies and assist in the interpretation and presentation of results, (6) interact and collaborate with the Clinical Research Office in the development of protocols and the monitoring and reporting of clinical data, (7) maintain a computing facility with up-to-date software for statistical analysis to support program project investigators, and (8) conduct biostatistical methodology research on practical problems arising in basic science populational and clinical studies.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Research/Research-Cores/Biostatistical-Sciences/

Last modified 02-01-2022

To best understand complex human diseases, data should be efficiently collected at various levels and analyzed in an integrated manner. In this context, ‘Bioinformatics’ plays an important role in many aspects, including data storage and retrieval, software development, and data visualization. These are especially critical these days when trying to summarize massive data sets and highly complex analytical outcomes in research.

The Bioinformatics Core will provide state-of-the-art bioinformatics services and consulting, proposing the best practice of existing computational pipelines, mathematical modeling, statistical analysis methods, and machine learning approaches. For example, with this resource, our investigators will be able to target these topic areas: 1) identification of novel therapeutic targets through network-based master regulator analysis, 2) centralized interpretation of single cell multi-omics data for decoding cellular heterogeneity and identifying cell type specific molecular profile, 3) characterization of potential immune and microenvironmental interactions through computational deconvolution methods and multimodal data integration, 4) development of machine learning algorithms for biomedicine in the clinic evaluating best practices and validating efficacy for predicting patient outcomes and therapies within institution, and 5) significant advances in computational infrastructure to provide web resources for community model development and distribution.

Website:

https://stage.cedars-sinai.edu/research/cores/cancer-bioinformatics-shared-resource.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Applied Genomics, Computation & Translational Core (AGCT Core) is a fully equipped, automated, high-throughput genomics facility offering the latest in next generation sequencing technologies, including single cell genomics, spatial transcriptomics, and bulk cell genomics. We generate and interpret single cell omics, genomics, transcriptomics, epigenomics, and metagenomics information for basic and clinical research. As a 10x Genomic Certified Service Provider, the AGCT Core specializes in single cell omics applications, including scRNA-Seq, scATAC-Seq, scV(D)J immune profiling, and scMultiome. We offer sample preparation for such assays, from fresh or frozen tissue, cryopreserved cells, fresh-frozen tissue blocks, and FFPE tissue blocks. The AGCT Core also specializes in Visium spatial transcriptomics for fresh-frozen or for FFPE tissue. Cryostat and microtome sectioning services are also available. Single cell DNA sequencing via the Mission Bio Tapestri system is also offered by the AGCT Core. The AGCT Core also offers bulk cell mRNA-Seq and total RNA-Seq for all sample types, including low-input or degraded RNA. miRNA-Seq is also available.  Our genomics offerings include whole genome and whole exome sequencing.  Our epigenomics services include ATAC-Seq and whole genome bisulfite sequencing.  For metagenomics, we offer amplicon sequencing of the V1-V2 region or all regions (V1-V9) of the 16S rRNA gene.  We also offer ITS amplicon sequencing for mycobiome studies. Sequencing-only services are also available.

We offer complete laboratory and bioinformatics analysis pipelines to accommodate standard needs, as well as work actively in collaborations to offer more sophisticated or custom solutions on most omics-wide investigations. We have set up solid pipelines associated with each sequencing service for primary data processing, including read alignment, quality control, and expression quantification (bulk & single-cell RNA-seq), variant calling (WGS/WES) or peak calling (bulk and single-cell ATAC-seq/CUT&TAG/ChIP-seq). We provide analysis for the latest in spatial transcriptomics technologies include 10x Genomics Visium for both fresh frozen and FFPE samples, as well as the GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler. Our pipelines fully support analysis of multiomic data include 10x Genomics’ multiome and CITE-seq, and we have extensive experience analyzing data from various cell hashing techniques. We have also developed packages for in-depth, customized computational analyses driven by specific biological questions defined by investigators. Furthermore, we provide support on interpretation and presentation of results, generating extensive reports with publication-ready images, and drafting of bioinformatics and statistical methodology for manuscripts. We provide lifelong data curation and cloud storage for collaborators. 

Please visit the AGCT Core’s website for a complete list of available services, instrumentation, and detailed information about data processing and analyses.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/genomics.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Biobank is a state-of-the-art biorepository that: (1) collects human biospecimens based on institutional priorities for biomedical research and also for investigator-driven requests, (2) provides tissue, blood, and body fluid collection, processing, and storage services, (3) provides a uniform, institution-wide, consent process for facilitating research studies, (4) provides clinical annotation services and fulfills custom requests for chart review, and (5) aids in developing protocols for human biospecimen procurement and processing.

The Translational Research Core provides pathology and molecular services which include grossing of human/animal tissue, histopathology, tissue microarray generation, and the development of protocols for new antibodies and in-situ hybridization probes. Imaging and image analysis services include: (1) full slide scanning of human and animal cells/tissues on glass slides, including either chromogenic or fluorescent multispectral scanning, (2) image analysis of digital images generated with single or multiple probes in visible light or fluorescent wavelength ranges. The core also has a number of state-of-the art imaging and molecular instrumentation (laser-capture microdissection, nanostring, confocal, lightsheet microscope etc.) that are available to researchers.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/biobank-translational.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The HLA and Immunogenetics Laboratory provides state-of-the-art histocompatibility and immunogenetics testing for solid organ and hematopoietic stem cell transplantation. The HLA Laboratory also provides histocompatibility testing for non-transplant services including disease association and drug hypersensitivity. Services include: (1) intermediate and high-resolution HLA typing by next generation sequencing, (2) HLA and non-HLA antibody detection by solid phase or cell-based assays, (3) KIR and MICA gene typing, (4) chimerism testing, and (5) other immune assessment.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/programs/transplant-center/programs/immunogenetics.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Cedars-Sinai Research Imaging Core (RIC) is an advanced imaging center dedicated to providing high-quality imaging services tailored to the unique needs of the research community from rodents and large animals to human subjects. We offer a Clinical 3T MRI (Vida, Siemens) and simultaneous Clinical PET/MR (Biograph, Siemens) for human and large animal subjects, as well as 9.4T Small Animal MRI (Bruker), in-Vivo Small Animal/Specimen CT (Scanco Viva40 and PerkElmer Quantum GX2), Cryofluoresence Tomography (EMIT) Optical (IVIS Spectrum and Luminar XR), Small Animal image guided irradiator (X-RAD SmART), micro-ultrasound imaging system (Vevo 3100) and Small Animal 4Dx Lung imaging services for research. 

Our facility is staffed with highly trained and experienced personnel, including expert research scientists, technologists, registered nurses, and additional support staff to ensure the most positive experience. We also offer core IRB/IACUC protocol support and seed grants to help get your research started quickly, and a dedicated research PACS and post-processing software to support data transfer, image analysis and data processing. In addition to research imaging, the Siemens systems are licensed for clinical use to allow standard-of-care, diagnostic imaging performed in conjunction with research imaging. We welcome and look forward to working with all CTSI investigators.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/imaging.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

Imaging and image analysis services include: (1) full slide scanning of human and animal cells/tissues on glass slides, including either chromogenic or fluorescent multispectral scanning, (2) image analysis of digital images generated with single or multiple probes in visible light or fluorescent wavelength ranges. The core also has a number of state-of-the art imaging and molecular instrumentation (laser-capture microdissection, nanostring, confocal, lightsheet microscope etc.) that are available to researchers.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/biobank-translational.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Cedars-Sinai Research Imaging Core (RIC) is an advanced imaging center dedicated to providing high-quality imaging services tailored to the unique needs of the research community from rodents and large animals to human subjects. We offer a Clinical 3T MRI (Vida, Siemens) and simultaneous Clinical PET/MR (Biograph, Siemens) for human and large animal subjects, as well as 9.4T Small Animal MRI (Bruker), in-Vivo Small Animal/Specimen CT (Scanco Viva40 and PerkElmer Quantum GX2), Cryofluoresence Tomography (EMIT) Optical (IVIS Spectrum and Luminar XR), Small Animal image guided irradiator (X-RAD SmART), micro-ultrasound imaging system (Vevo 3100) and Small Animal 4Dx Lung imaging services for research.

Our facility is staffed with highly trained and experienced personnel, including expert research scientists, technologists, registered nurses, and additional support staff to ensure the most positive experience. We also offer core IRB/IACUC protocol support and seed grants to help get your research started quickly, and a dedicated research PACS and post-processing software to support data transfer, image analysis and data processing. In addition to research imaging, the Siemens systems are licensed for clinical use to allow standard-of-care, diagnostic imaging performed in conjunction with research imaging. We welcome and look forward to working with all CTSI investigators.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/imaging.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Molecular Therapeutics Core provides a cross-disciplinary resource for researchers engaged in structural biology, therapeutics development, and drug discovery research. Services include: (1) pilot recombinant protein production, (2) large-scale protein production, (3) biophysical characterization, (4) molecular modeling and drug design, and (5) x-ray crystallographic services. Initial consultations are available free-of-charge.

For more information, including a complete list of services and available instrumentation (Malvern PEAQ-ITC calorimetery for thermodynamic analysis of protein-ligand interactions recently acquired), please visit the core website.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.edu/Research/Research-Cores/Molecular-Therapeutics-Core/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Proteomics, Metabolomics and Mitochondrial Function Core is defined by technically diverse instrumentation with the most advanced technologies available to the fields of proteomics, metabolomics and quantitative targeted protein assays. These technologies are dedicated to the identification and quantitative analysis of analytes from all types of biological samples including whole blood, plasma, CSF, cells or tissues and include samples originating from cell culture, animal models or patient-derived research studies. Services include a wide variety of discovery proteomics assays, identification of co- and post-translational modifications (phosphorylation, acetylation, methylation citrullination and more), as well as the fields leading methodologies for protein dynamics and protein-protein interactions.

A selection of targeted mass spectrometry-based assays is available for quantification of protein panels associated with important cellular pathways and functions. In addition to many mass spectrometry-based assays available, the core is equipped with two of the field’s leading immunoassay platforms, (1) ultra-sensitive digital ELISA, SIMOA HD-1 Analyzer (2) high-performance electrochemiluminescence ELISA platform, MESO QuickPlex SQ 12. All Proteomics and Metabolomic Core services include data analysis and a data release consultation. Advanced bioinformatic services for biological pathway analyzes and multi-omic data integration are also available through the core bioinformatic services.

To complement molecular phenotyping of mitochondria by metabolomics and proteomics, we recently incorporated instrumentation for seahorse respirometry and support a suite of seahorse XFp instruments. These respirometry platforms enable quantification of cellular metabolism by glycolytic and oxidative pathways and in response to numerous nutrient sources and perturbations. Our Mitochondria and Metabolomics experts wield expertise to advise on complex interrogations of mitochondrial biology and we offer consultation and support on techniques for in-depth mitochondrial characterization beyond respirometry, to include mitochondrial morphometry, turnover rates, membrane potential, mPTP susceptibility, cytochrome c release, free radical production, mtDNA sequencing and 8- oxo-dG analysis.

Website:

https://www.cedars-sinai.org/research/cores/proteomics-metabolomics.html

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Lundquist/Harbor-UCLA Animal Care and Use Program is uniquely designed to accommodate large animal models, and is equipped with several large animal surgical suites containing anesthesia machines, monitoring equipment, fluoroscopes, and a CT Scanner. The major types of studies center around perinatal lung development, the effect of the fetal environment on development, antibody production, vascular implant surgery, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Services include: (1) protocol development, (2) animal procurement, (3) animal care procedures, (4) animal health programs, (5) special services, and (6) training programs.

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The Bioimaging and Immunotherapeutics Research Core provides four major resources to researchers: (1) the BD Calibur flow cytometer facility, which employs a dual-laser (argon and helium-neon), 4-color FACS Calibur flow cytometer and cell sorter to facilitate the molecular and physiological examination of individual cells and enable collection of living cells for further study; (2) the IVIS Lumina II system, a high-sensitivity, in vivo imaging technology platform that enables non-invasive visualization of both bioluminescent and fluorescent signals, tracking of cellular and therapeutic activities within a living organism in real time, and detection of signals from tissue, petri dishes, and microtiter plates; (3) a Luminex multiplex analyzer that utilizes xMAP microsphere technology and has the capability of performing up to 100 assays simultaneously in a single well of a microtiter plate; and (4) a Biotek Synergy 2 multi-mode microplate reader, a combination luminometer-fluorometer-absorbance detector capable of reading 96-well and larger plates that utilizes both filter-based and monochromatic-based light-detection technology.

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The High-Resolution Tissue Respirometry (HRTR) Core supports investigators in mitochondrial physiology and pathophysiology studies. The core provides consultation, training, and services for assessment of oxidative phosphorylation in isolated mitochondria,cells, vesicles or tissue preparations. The HRTR Core uses Oroboros Oxygraph-2k High Resolution Respirometry equipment. Applications of HRTR include: (1) diagnosis of acquired and genetic mitochondrial diseases, myopathies, and neuromuscular pathologies, (2) study of pathologies with reduced cellular respiration, (3) studies on cell function and cell death, (4) aging and senescence, (5) oxidative stress and antioxidant systems, (6) ischemia-reperfusion injury, (7) cancer research / pharmacological tests, (8) environmental stress, and (9) metabolic substrate balance.

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The Institute for Translational Genomics and Population Sciences consists of 3 core laboratories—the Laboratory for Biochemistry, Molecular Phenotyping, and Cell Line Repository; the Laboratory for Statistical and Mathematical Genetics; and the Laboratory for Molecular Genetics, Bioinformatics, and High Throughput Genotyping. The Genomics Institute Faculty have been extremely active in large scale genetic studies and both single cohort and in multi-cohort (and multi-ethnic) consortium efforts that have identified many genetic loci for cardiometabolic traits. We have contributed to the design stages, to performance of biochemical phenotyping, to large scale genotyping, and to statistical genetic analysis. The many loci we and our collaborators have identified are being utilized by ourselves and others to generate multi-loci genetic risk scores as powerful tools to dissect disease etiology and to perform risk assessment in populations. Besides our involvement in many large scale genome wide association studies (GWAS), we are now actively involved in large scale whole genome sequencing studies (WGS) and Multi-Omics studies.

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The CTRC Bionutrition Core at Lundquist/Harbor-UCLA provides services to outpatient, overnight / extended stay and community based studies. A metabolic kitchen is dedicated to the preparation of nutrient controlled and regular meals. The Bionutrition Core has a metabolic assessment room with DXA, indirect calorimetry, BIA and anthropometric tools that integrates body composition, bone mineral density, and energy expenditure testing. The Bionutrition Core also provides state-of-the-art nutrition computing facilities with programs for nutrient analysis, semi-quantitative food frequency analysis, and design and specification of research diets. The Bionutrition Core personnel are experienced with REDCAP and can facilitate the collection and tracking of nutrition data for research studies. Training in nutrition research methodology is available to research fellows and other students.

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The Computed Tomographic (CT) Reading Core specializes in cardiac, vascular, and body composition imaging using advanced CT workstations, advanced quality control methods, systems storage, and analytical methods for multiple investigations. It provides unique services in atherosclerosis imaging including plaque quantification, perfusion imaging, and diagnostic services. In addition, the CT Reading Core offers collaborations in the area of renal, hepatic, vascular, and pulmonary imaging, as well as body composition and endothelial function assessment.

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The Endocrine and Metabolic Research Laboratory supports clinical and translational investigators in many aspects of research through expertise in analytical testing and development of new methods. Over forty different procedures are offered through the Endocrine and Metabolic Research Laboratory utilizing a variety of techniques including radioimmunoassay, fluoroimmunoassay, fluorometry and LC-MS/MS. Additionally, semen analyses and special andrological testing are available in the Andrology Laboratory.

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The pulmonary function testing (PFT) cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) core lab facility supports investigators in pulmonary function and cardiopulmonary exercise testing studies. PFT consists of an array of non-invasive tests of abnormality of lung mechanics and pulmonary gas exchange used to detect the presence of, and quantify the severity of, a range of lung diseases. CPET provides a whole-body assessment of the integrative exercise responses involving the pulmonary, cardiovascular, hematopoietic, neuropsychological, and skeletal muscle systems, which are not adequately reflected through the measurement of individual organ system function. The CPET Core Lab will provide consultation, training, and services for clinical research using PFT and CPET. The Core Lab is also highly-experienced in multicenter clinical trials using PFT and CPET measurements.

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The Bioimaging and Immunotherapeutics Research Core provides four major resources to researchers: (1) the BD Calibur flow cytometer facility, which employs a dual-laser (argon and helium-neon), 4-color FACS Calibur flow cytometer and cell sorter to facilitate the molecular and physiological examination of individual cells and enable collection of living cells for further study; (2) the IVIS Lumina II system, a high-sensitivity, in vivo imaging technology platform that enables non-invasive visualization of both bioluminescent and fluorescent signals, tracking of cellular and therapeutic activities within a living organism in real time, and detection of signals from tissue, petri dishes, and microtiter plates; (3) a Luminex multiplex analyzer that utilizes xMAP microsphere technology and has the capability of performing up to 100 assays simultaneously in a single well of a microtiter plate; and (4) a Biotek Synergy 2 multi-mode microplate reader, a combination luminometer-fluorometer-absorbance detector capable of reading 96-well and larger plates that utilizes both filter-based and monochromatic-based light-detection technology.

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The Biomedical Mass Spectrometry Facility (BMSF) supports clinical research projects in clinical nutrition and metabolic research. The BMSF specializes in experimental design using stable isotopes and analytical methods (13C carbon tracing) for physiological or metabolic investigations. It provides unique services in isotopomer distribution analysis of metabolites (tracer-based metabolomics) using GC/MS (or LC-TOF). In addition, the BMSF offers collaborations in the area of metabolite profiling and modeling of metabolic systems with tracers. Services provided include: (1) sample preparation, (2) quantitative and qualitative analysis by GC/MS, IRMS and LC/MS, (3) consultation, (4) collaboration in metabolite profiling and tracer-based metabolomics, and (5) training on approved projects.

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The Guenther Molecular Biology Core supports investigators performing morphological, biochemical, cell and molecular biological studies both at cellular and subcellular levels. Consultation and training services are provided for localization of genes, RNA transcripts and proteins in complex tissues as well subcellular distribution in tissues. The laboratory houses five types of state-of the art equipment: an Agilent Bioanalyzer, two Applied Biosystem StepOne Plus Sequence Detection Systems, one Applied Biosystems 7900HT 384 well real-time quantitative PCR system, two TaqMan PCR platforms (96 well format), one Leica Confocal SP8 platform, two flow cytometers (one BD LSR II and one FACSymphony A5). The Guenther Core also has a facility for immunohistochemistry studies.

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The Institute for Translational Genomics and Population Sciences consists of 3 core laboratories—the Laboratory for Biochemistry, Molecular Phenotyping, and Cell Line Repository; the Laboratory for Statistical and Mathematical Genetics; and the Laboratory for Molecular Genetics, Bioinformatics, and High Throughput Genotyping. The Genomics Institute Faculty have been extremely active in large scale genetic studies and both single cohort and in multi-cohort (and multi-ethnic) consortium efforts that have identified many genetic loci for cardiometabolic traits. We have contributed to the design stages, to performance of biochemical phenotyping, to large scale genotyping, and to statistical genetic analysis. The many loci we and our collaborators have identified are being utilized by ourselves and others to generate multi-loci genetic risk scores as powerful tools to dissect disease etiology and to perform risk assessment in populations. Besides our involvement in many large scale genome wide association studies (GWAS), we are now actively involved in large scale whole genome sequencing studies (WGS) and Multi-Omics studies.

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Expertise and equipment for the design, implementation, and analysis of behavioral experiments. We work on a broad range of projects in both rats and mice, from behavioral phenotyping of novel transgenic mouse lines to developing rodent models of human clinical disorders.

Website:

http://btc.psych.ucla.edu/

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The Cardiovascular Research Theme at UCLA offers rodent models of cardiovascular disease as research resources to all researchers in the CV theme. The goal of this core is to provide CV theme researchers expertise and ready access to cardiac injury models for pre-clinical studies or mechanistic investigation of injury induced abnormalities affecting repair, scarring or electrical propagation.

Website:

https://medschool.ucla.edu/cv-research-theme-small-animal-physiology-core

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The Mouse Physiology Core Laboratory facility is dedicated to the phenotypic assessment of mouse and rat models of disease using a wide variety of integrative approaches. Our aim is to provide a cost effective means for investigators to reveal important functional aspects of their mouse and rat models without having to individually invest in hiring skilled personnel and in the purchase of expensive instrumentation. We specialize in ultrasound (echo) & telemetric assessments, survival and non-survival surgeries, acute and chronic evaluations of cardiac and neuro-regulatory function as well as basic metabolic and exercise assessments. The lab is also capable of certification testing of new drugs or substances intended for human use by performing FDA approved (GLP certified 21 CFR part 58 including part 11 compliance) studies on rodent models.

Website:

http://www.physiology.ucla.edu/Labs/Mouselab.htm

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The Radiation Oncology Animal Core breeds and houses mice in a gnotobiotic environment. The core can supply various strains of mice to meet investigators’ needs (please see website). Mice from other facilities may be imported, after inspection of sentinel health reports, and housed in the extra-barrier area. Irradiators are available for both whole-body and partial body exposures including image-guided techniques. The core additionally maintains an ABSL2 facility.

Website:

https://www.uclahealth.org/radonc/radiation-oncology-animal-core

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The overall goal of the UCLA Humanized Mouse Core Laboratory is to provide the infrastructure, materials, animals, technical expertise, and support that will facilitate the use of humanized immunodeficient mice in studies examining human tissues and disease in the context of a small animal model system. Services include: (1) procuring immunodeficient mice at a reduced cost, (2) providing specialized animal laboratories for the construction, housing, and maintenance of immunodeficient mice, (3) constructing humanized mice, (4) developing and optimizing new humanized mouse models, (5) providing technical expertise and consultation on humanized mouse models. The core also provides consultation in flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, PCR, and other assays.

Website:

https://www.uclahealth.org/aidsinstitute/cfar/humanized-mouse-core

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The Zebrafish Core facilitates the use and quick access of common mutation, genetically-engineered transgenic zebrafish, and routine techniques of zebrafish manipulation by investigators. Services include: (1) providing space to house zebrafish and perform large-scale genetic screens, (2) providing embryos for experiments, (3) generation of transgenic zebrafish, and (4) cryostorage of zebrafish sperm and re-derivation of live fish. Training is available for select techniques and zebrafish husbandry.

Website:

https://www.mcdb.ucla.edu/Research/Zebrafish/

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The UCLA Cardiovascular Research Theme will provide cardiac muscle cells as a core service at a highly subsidized rate. The goal of this service is to provide a readily available resource of cardiac muscle cells for investigators performing ex vivo experiments on cardiac muscle cells. Two types of cardiac muscle cells will be provided: (1) Neonatal rat ventricular cardiomyocytes. These cells beat in the dish for 3-7 days and provide a platform for determining effects of toxins, drugs or other genetic manipulation of the cardiac muscle cell, and (2) Human embryonic stem cell or human iPSC derived cardiomyocytes. H9 or other NIH approved lines and UCLA approved lines are used as a source for the differentiation of cardiac muscle cells. Human pluripotent stem cell derived cardiac muscle cells will be handed to investigators at their preferred time point of differentiation. To maintain consistency, standard differentiation programs are used. Crispr/Cas edited hPSC derived cardiomyocytes will be introduced as a core service in the near future.

Website:

https://medschool.ucla.edu/cv-research-theme-cardiac-muscle-cell-core

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The Virology Core Laboratory provides a wide array of services for both HIV/AIDS and other researchers. It offers testing services (p24 ELISA, real time and digital droplet PCR for the detection of HIV cDNA, HIV viral load), blood and blood cell products. In addition, the core maintains a fully equipped and stocked BSL2+ facility for scientists that do not have wet lab space, new investigators joining UCLA or investigators that do not have such lab space. Finally, the core is able to assist individual researchers with special projects related to, but not limited to, HIV detection.

Website:

http://www.virology.med.ucla.edu/

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The core laboratory provides instrumentation and technical and professional assistance for performing laser-based flow cytometric analysis and cell sorting. The facility also offers training in basic flow cytometry principles and in the operation of analytic cytometers. A second course teaches nucleic acid analysis and measurement of proliferation by flow cytometry as well as hands-on instrument set-up and use of the specialized DNA analysis software.

Website:

http://cyto.mednet.ucla.edu/home.html

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The Immune Assessment Core (IAC) is a CLIA certified laboratory that provides comprehensive immunological testing services for basic, clinical, and translational studies. The IAC provides both standardized and customized multi-parameter flow cytometry, multiplexed immunoassays and cellular immune function assays to evaluate the innate and adaptive immune status of study subjects. Validated tests include comprehensive immunophenotyping panels, multiplexed cytokine/chemokine detection in body fluids or culture supernatants, several ELISA assays, allo- and virus-specific T cell activation, T and B cell proliferation to antigens and mitogens, NK cell cytotoxicity, and granulocyte/monocyte oxidative burst. The core also performs customized assay development to meet the investigators’ needs.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/iac

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The IMTC services include (but are not limited to): (1) consultation and troubleshooting in techniques for efficient gene delivery, as well as cloning and functional protein expression in mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo, (2) virus production such as Lentivirus, Adenovirus-Associated virus, (3) consultation and to perform customized gene expression profiling, cytological phenotype profiling, and high-throughput molecular screening studies by utilizing high-throughput and highly automated robotic systems. The Integrated Molecular Technologies Core (IMTC) is therefore intended to serve as a comprehensive resource that will provide access to state-of-the-art molecular tools and thereby aims to facilitate the research activities of CURE: DDRCC investigators.

Website:

https://www.ucladdrcc.med.ucla.edu/cores/integrated-molecular-technologies-core-imtc-and-microbiome-sub-core

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The UCLA Mitochondria and Metabolism Core provides the necessary technical and conceptual resources for studying mitochondrial function. Services include respirometry assays in intact cells, permeabilized cells, and isolated mitochondria using the Seahorse XF96 Extracellular Flux Analyzer. Additionally, a frozen tissue respirometry assay is now available to measure maximal respiratory capacity in previously frozen samples.  An Operetta High Content Imaging System is also available for measurements of mitochondrial mass, membrane potential, and reactive oxygen species, among other applications. The Mitochondria and Metabolism Core provides in-depth training and scheduled use of instruments or full-service options for assay design, performance, and data analysis.

Website:

https://medschool.ucla.edu/metabolism/cores

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The Nano and Pico Characterization (NPC) Laboratory at CNSI provides a unique collection of analytical and imaging tools along with expert technical support to enable the physicochemical characterization of nanomaterials and systems under a wide range of applications and experimental conditions. Technical capabilities include surface analysis by Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM); hydrodynamic size and surface charge analysis by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Zeta Potential (ZP) measurements; elemental and chemical analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The NPC team provides core services including: (1) consultation for effective decision-making based on your needs, (2) application-specific training and assisted measurements, (3) sample preparation (e.g., acid digestion) and sample analysis.

Website:

https://npc.cnsi.ucla.edu/

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The AI in Imaging and Neuroscience Core provides automated and semi-automated processing of medical images with a special focus on vascular diseases and cancer using advanced pattern recognition and machine learning algorithms. A web-platform that offers a cloud computing pipeline is provided for the application of artificial intelligence to medical images and physiological signals. The services are centered on the processing of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), digital subtraction angiography (DSA), Transcranial Doppler ultrasound (TCD), intracranial pressure waveforms (ICP), digital pathology slides and time lapsed live cell microscopy videos.

Website:

http://web.cs.ucla.edu/~fab/core.html

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The Computing Technologies Research Laboratory (CTRL) specializes in research and clinical data collection, management, and reporting solutions. They develop Internet-accessible, web-based database applications that enable and enhance clinical & basic research and education, in the biomedical community. Services include: (1) web application development, (2) mobile app programming, and (3) database design and hosting.

Website:

https://dgit.healthsciences.ucla.edu/pages/Software-Development

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The primary objective of DOMStat is to provide statistical analysis collaboration to investigators across the translational research spectrum (basic science, bioinformatics, observational studies, clinical trials, electronic health records research and health services). DOMStat offers faculty and staff level statistical collaboration for grant proposals, data analysis, manuscript preparation, and other research activities requiring statistical input.

Website:

http://domstat.med.ucla.edu

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The Informatics Center for Neurogenetics and Neurogenomics (ICNN) provides CNN faculty experts in statistical genetics, gene expression analysis, and bioinformatics will oversee the activities of highly-trained staff members who will accomplish three goals: 1) provide expert consultation and analyses for neurogenetics and neurogenomics projects; 2) develop and maintain a shared computing resource that will include a computational cluster for computation-intensive analyses, web-servers and state-of-the-art software tools for a wide range of applications (including user-friendly versions of public databases, as well as workstations on which ICNN users will be trained to employ these tools; and 3) provide hands-on training in analysis and informatics to the users. ICNN is developing a whole-genome data analysis pipeline, aimed at filtering and prioritizing genetic variation identified in whole-genome sequencing studies for further study.

Website:

https://www.semel.ucla.edu/research/core/informatics-center-neurogenetics-and-neurogenomics-icnn

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The Semel Institute Biostatistics Core (SIStat) is a team of expert biostatisticians, methodologists, programmers and research support staff. The mission of the core is to foster research productivity and quality by helping faculty and trainees design sound research projects; obtain independent funding; securely collect, store, and share data; and conduct rigorous analyses. Services include: (1) Statistical consulting and analytic support; (2) development of customized systems for data entry/capture, study management and dissemination; (3) programming of specialized software and tools for analysis, patient assessment, questionnaire scoring, and administrative systems; (4) website construction and graphical design; and (5) submission of materials to the National Data Archives or other repositories. Support is offered for projects ranging from small pilot studies to large, long-running, multi-site centers.

Website:

http://www.sistat.ucla.edu/

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The UCLA Microbiome Core performs services related to microbiome studies including 16S ribosomal RNA gene sequencing, shotgun metagenomics sequencing, human/animal sample collection and processing (feces, tissues, intestinal lavage, rectal sponges, vaginal swabs), frozen fecal sample aliquoting, bioinformatics analysis of 16S rRNA and shotgun metagenomics data, quantitative PCR of total bacterial load, fecal calprotectin measurement, and long-term storage of fecal aliquots as well as extracted microbial DNA.

Website:

https://www.uclahealth.org/gastro/jacobs-lab/core-services

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The UCLA Neurosciences Genomics Core (UNGC) currently operates an Illumina BeadLab 1000 high throughput SNP genotyping system (iScan) and has access to Illumina NovaSeq instruments on the UNCLA campus. A PacBio Sequel IIe long read sequencer is currently being installed. Services include: RNA/DNA library preparation and sequencing on NovaSeq and PacBio platforms. Genotyping available using all current Illumina Infinium genotyping arrays. Whole genome methylation assays using Illumina Meth-Epic and Horvath custom pan-mammalian arrays available. For project specific pricing please contact Joe DeYoung, facility manager. Non-UCLA neuroscience labs, please inquire about service availability.

View UNGC's available equipment and services.

Website:

https://www.semel.ucla.edu/ungc

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The Technology Center for Genomics and Bioinformatics (TCGB) is a fully automated, high-throughput genomic facility equipped with all major next generation sequencing. TCGB provides state-of-the-art genomics technologies, comprehensive services, specialized expertise and a wide range of trainings, enabling these services in a cost-effective and timely manner to serve basic science and translational/clinical research. The Core provides pre-experiment consultation, post-experiment support, and educational training to faculty, staff, and students to raise awareness on new directions and major discoveries in the areas of genomics and bioinformatics. Services include: (1) next generation sequencing, (2) 10X single cell sequencing, 3) 10X Visum and Noanostring GeoMx spatial transcriptomics, 4) Data analysis, and (5) quality control services, RNA/DNA extraction, and qRT- PCR.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/tcgb

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The UCLA Center for Computer Vision and Imaging Biomarkers (CVIB) provides imaging core lab services, including: (1) standardized multi-center imaging protocol development and quality control, (2) image de-identification, transfer, banking, and distribution, (3) cutting-edge quantitative image feature extraction, analysis, and data management, and (4) imaging research database support. CVIB also provides clinical quantitative imaging services within UCLA Healthcare and to overseas hospital departments.

Key attributes of the CVIB Core Laboratory are: (1) image quality, (2) accurate and reproducible quantitation, (3) rigorous science, (4) high throughput, (5) well-managed and on-time service, and (6) user friendly.

Website:

http://cvib.ucla.edu/

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The Center for Human Nutrition provides Dual Energy X-Ray Absorptiometry (DXA or DEXA) Body Composition Analysis. DXA body composition analysis is considered the "gold standard" for measurement of body fat including visceral fat estimation, and gives an accurate measure for assessing health. Specialized scans to assess Bone Mineral Density analysis are available, which can be utilized for assessing bone health and risk estimation of osteopenia and osteoporosis.

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The UC Fit-Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, part of the Airway & Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, promotes a prevention model of wellness, focused on forestalling disease progression through the enhancement of health and fitness practices. Recently, the lab was distinguished as part of the Exercise is Medicine� on-campus recognition program through the American College of Sports Medicine, together whose vision is to create a campus culture that embraces physical activity and exercise as a daily facet of life and views it as essential for long-term health and wellness. Health-fitness assessments include: (1) aerobic performance; (2) pulmonary function; (3) body composition; (4) muscle performance; (5) functional movement screen; (6) total energy expenditure; (7) sleep quality; (8) cardiovascular health risk & HRV; (9) posture; (10) performance tracking; (11) consultation for exercise program development.

Website:

https://ucfitlab.com

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The Immune Assessment Core (IAC) is a CLIA certified laboratory that provides comprehensive immunological testing services for basic, clinical, and translational studies. The IAC provides both standardized and customized multi-parameter flow cytometry, multiplexed immunoassays and cellular immune function assays to evaluate the innate and adaptive immune status of study subjects. Validated tests include comprehensive immunophenotyping panels, multiplexed cytokine/chemokine detection in body fluids or culture supernatants, several ELISA assays, allo- and virus-specific T cell activation, T and B cell proliferation to antigens and mitogens, NK cell cytotoxicity, and granulocyte/monocyte oxidative burst. The core also performs customized assay development to meet the investigators’ needs.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/iac

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The Immunogenetics Center provides comprehensive testing for organ and tissue transplantation to physicians, patients, pharmaceutical companies, and other medical facilities. It is one of the leading laboratories in the world, providing state-of-the-art technology and methodology with a comprehensive quality assurance program to ensure accuracy in testing. Services include: (1) HLA-class I (A,B,C) and class II (DR, DQ, DP) gene polymorphism typing, (2) histocompatibility testing (HLA antibody and identification testing and lymphocyte crossmatch testing) and non-HLA antibodies (AT1R, MICA, Autoantibody Panel, Endothelial Crossmatch, (3) KIR and MICA gene typing, (4) HLA and Disease Association testing and (4) immune assessment to alloantigens and pathogens.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/uic-hla

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Two previous research laboratories, the Clinical and Translational Research Laboratory (CTRL) and the Clinical Immunology Research Laboratory (CIRL) have been restructured into the Pathology Research Portal (PRP). The PRP is a CAP accredited laboratory. This new addition to the Center for Pathology Research Services (CPRS) functions as the biospecimen liaison between researchers and clinical testing, and provides coordination for sample receiving, accessioning, processing, short term and long term storage, dispatching to multiple core facilities for testing, and result retrieving. PRP also provides shipping and temporary storage services, and can also provide customized services to meet various research needs.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/ctrl

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The Pulmonary Function and Respiratory Physiology Laboratory, part of the Airway & Exercise Physiology Research Laboratory, specializes in COPD research from pediatrics through geriatrics and houses a multitude of spirometers, oscillometers, body plethysmograph equipment for measuring spirometry, lung volumes, diffusing capacity, and bronchodilator challenge to assess lung function. Our facilities include clinical and research subject encounters, interviews, resting ECG’s, and blood and sputum samplings. Moreover, physical performance tests such as the six-minute-walk-test, hand grip strength test and short-physical-performance battery can be assessed. The lab is highly-experienced in multicenter trials using PFT and has acted as the primary reading and quality control site in many clinical trials.

Website:

https://www.uclahealth.org/pulmonary/copd

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Our primary service is human MRI research scanning; the rate is 600/hour, and we have a full suite of advanced pulse sequences for structural functional, diffusion, blood flow and spectroscopic imaging. We also have EEG systems in shielded rooms, and MRI compatible EEG.

Website:

https://www.semel.ucla.edu/staglin

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The Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) Clinical and Research Service in the Semel Institute operates seven TMS devices (both Magventure and Magstim) that are capable of a full range of clinical and research TMS procedures, including sham-coil stimulation. The Service also is equipped with a neuronavigation system that allows MRI-guidance of coil placement as well as TMS-compatible EEG that allows recording during stimulation procedures.

Website:

http://neuromodulation.ucla.edu/

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The Translational Pathology Core Laboratory (TPCL) provides an array of pathology-related services in support of basic, translational, and clinical research. Expert consultative services are offered to investigators in pathology-related study design, tissue selection, microscopic interpretation, immunohistochemistry/in situ hybridization, laser capture microdissection, digital image analysis, and IRB-related tissue questions. Services include: (1) tissue procurement, storage, and provision, (2) histology-related services, (3) immunohistochemistry, (4) in situ hybridization, (5) digital imaging and image analysis, (6) laser capture microdissection, (7) pathology consultative services, and (8) advice on research protocols, safety issues, and IRB applications.

Website:

http://pathology.ucla.edu/tpcl

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The mission of the Advanced Light Microscopy and Spectroscopy Laboratory (ALMS) is to provide consultation, services, and support for the application of novel microscopic and spectroscopic methods and advanced image analysis techniques for the study of macromolecules, cellular dynamics, and nano-scale characterization of bio-materials. The facilities provide a collection of high-level, customized fluorescence microscopes and small-animal imaging devices that provide the ability to study biological processes with high spatial and temporal resolution in whole organisms and in living cells down to the single molecule detection level with nanometer accuracy. Services include: (1) wide-field fluorescence imaging microscopy, (2) confocal and two-photon laser scanning microscopy (point scanning and spinning disk), (3) fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS), (4) fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET), (5) microscopic and macroscopic fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) with time-correlated-single-photon-counting and near-infrared detection, (6) super-resolution microscopy (STED and STORM), (7) microscopic and macroscopic (small animal) spectral unmixing, (8) laser capture microdissection, (9) light-sheet microscopy and (10) image analysis.

Website:

https://alms.cnsi.ucla.edu/

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The Ahmanson-Lovelace Brain Mapping Center is committed to facilitating the development and growth of the field of Brain Mapping, a sub-discipline of neuroscience which uses brain imaging to better understand the structure and function of the human brain in health and alterations associated with disease. It is comprised of resources located in the core facility, the Ahmanson-Lovelace Brain Mapping Center, as well as additional resources housed in the Reed Neurological Research Center and the Neuroscience Research Building. Services include: (1) imaging (MRI), (2) NeuroModulation, (3) data analysis, and (4) a data center.

Website:

http://www.bmap.ucla.edu/services/

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The Biological Chemistry Imaging Facility (BCIF) provides resources for data acquisition and analysis for radioactive, fluorescent, and photographic samples as well as digital imaging and document production. BCIF provides round-the-clock access to a cluster of modern equipment such as Typhoons 9410 and 9400 Variable Mode Imagers, Storm 820 and 840 imagers, Laser Densitometer, Gel Documentation System, color printers, and high-resolution scanners. In addition, BCIF provides unlimited scientific data storage space on its secure storage arrays to all participating labs and access to a number of software packages for data analysis and digital data processing.

Website:

http://www.biolchem.ucla.edu/biological-chemistry-imaging-facility

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The Brain Research Institute Electron Microscopy Core Facility houses a JEOL 100CX transmission electron microscope. A Reichert Ultracut ultramicrotome is also available for use by trained personnel. Services include: (1) fixation and embedding of specimens, thin sectioning, (2) use of the electron microscopes (with or without assistance), (3) gold labeling, (4) negative stain, and (5) light microscopy of plastic embedded materials. The facility offers advice on appropriate preparatory procedures and other technical matters. Training and assistance in the use of the electron microscope is also offered.

Website:

http://www.bri.ucla.edu/research/core-facilities

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The Brain Research Institute Microscopic Techniques Laboratory offers instructions in microscopic techniques and assistance in tissue specimen preparation including rodents perfusion for light microscopic observation. Histological procedures available include: (1) some immunocytochemistry staining, (2) special stains, (3) paraffin sectioning, (4) vibratome sectioning, (5) cryostat sectioning, (6) plastic embedding and (6) sectioning. The laboratory also provides staining setups, a cryostat, microtomes, a vibratome, and a Nikon photomicroscope for use by trained personnel.

Website:

http://www.bri.ucla.edu/research/core-facilities

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The Electron Imaging Center for Nanomachines (EICN) provides state-of-the-art electron microscopy instruments and assisted usage services. Highly experienced staff provides necessary training and can help users address complex electron imaging needs. EICN offers advanced electron imaging techniques for visualizing materials, nanomachines, and cellular structures at atomic or nanometer scales in 2D and 3D. In addition, our latest integrated iCorr technology enables a streamlined approach to correlative microscopy to perform both fluorescence light and electron microscopy for biological research. Services available: (1) instrument training, (2) self usage, (3) assisted usage, and (4) data processing.

Website:

http://www.eicn.ucla.edu/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Nano and Pico Characterization (NPC) Laboratory at CNSI provides a unique collection of analytical and imaging tools along with expert technical support to enable the physicochemical characterization of nanomaterials and systems under a wide range of applications and experimental conditions. Technical capabilities include surface analysis by Scanning Probe Microscopy (SPM); hydrodynamic size and surface charge analysis by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS) and Zeta Potential (ZP) measurements; elemental and chemical analysis by Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS). The NPC team provides core services including: (1) consultation for effective decision-making based on your needs, (2) application-specific training and assisted measurements, (3) sample preparation (e.g., acid digestion) and sample analysis.

Website:

https://npc.cnsi.ucla.edu/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Preclinical Imaging Technology Center provides state-of-the-art imaging for small animals (mice, rats, rabbits, etc). It functions both as a shared preclinical imaging resource for UCLA researchers and as a hub for emerging imaging research and technology development. The same technologies and services are also available to the larger research community including other academic institutes and industry groups through contract work. The Imaging Center, operating through its sales-and-service, offers microPET, microCT, high resolution specimen CT, MRI, bioluminescence and fluorescence imaging modalities and complementary in vitro/ex vivo services including cell-based assays, biodistribution, digital autoradiography and dosimetry. Companion PET tracer radiochemistry and radiolabeling services are available in-house and is supported by on-campus cyclotron facilities. Technical and analytical support are available throughout the study process: initial consultation, experimental design and optimization, imaging protocols and techniques, post-acquisition data analysis and interpretation. Training and staff assistance are available. The Imaging Center is part of the Crump Institute for Molecular Imaging and is supported by the expertise of its faculty members, world leaders in various imaging sciences.

Website:

https://imaging.crump.ucla.edu/

Last modified 02-01-2022

Our primary service is human MRI research scanning; the rate is 600/hour, and we have a full suite of advanced pulse sequences for structural functional, diffusion, blood flow and spectroscopic imaging. We also have EEG systems in shielded rooms, and MRI compatible EEG.

Website:

https://www.semel.ucla.edu/staglin

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Translational Research Imaging Center (TRIC) at UCLA is a state-of-the- art, pre-clinical and human cadaver, diagnostic and interventional imaging center. With over 25 years of expertise, our team of physicians, scientists, fellows, technologists, and veterinary staff support pre-clinical studies and imaging procedures across the field of medicine. TRIC is dedicated to the development and testing of new medical devices, imaging technologies, drug therapies as well as novel treatments. Our dedicated staff include: Board-certified Interventional Radiologists, Board-certified Radiologists, MR Physicists, Veterinarians, Statisticians, and Experienced Research Assistants. The TRIC Lab imaging equipment and support systems include: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) – Siemens Magnetom 3T Prisma MRI whole-body system, X-Ray Angiography – Siemens Artis Zeego Angiogram Suite with robotic C arm with 3D rotational angiography and DynaCT capabilities, Computed Tomography (CT) – Siemens Somatom Definition 64 Dual Source scanner, X-Ray Angiography – Philips Allura Xper FD-10 Angiogram Suite with floor mounted C arm with 3D rotational angiography capabilities, iU22 Philips Ultrasound system for general imaging, PACS data management system, observation and recovery suites, multi-modality 3D-image post-processing, High-Definition video integration for Telepresence video conferencing.

Website:

https://www.uclahealth.org/radiology/pre-clinical-services

Last modified 02-01-2022

The IMTC services include (but are not limited to): (1) consultation and troubleshooting in techniques for efficient gene delivery, as well as cloning and functional protein expression in mammalian cells in vitro and in vivo, (2) virus production such as Lentivirus, Adenovirus-Associated virus, (3) consultation and to perform customized gene expression profiling, cytological phenotype profiling, and high-throughput molecular screening studies by utilizing high-throughput and highly automated robotic systems. The Integrated Molecular Technologies Core (IMTC) is therefore intended to serve as a comprehensive resource that will provide access to state-of-the-art molecular tools and thereby aims to facilitate the research activities of CURE: DDRCC investigators.

Website:

https://www.ucladdrcc.med.ucla.edu/cores/integrated-molecular-technologies-core-imtc-and-microbiome-sub-core

Last modified 02-01-2022

Provides 3-dimensional structure of small molecules in solid crystals via X-ray crystallography. Equipped for characterization of polycrystalline solid materials using powder and thin film diffraction techniques. The laboratory is a full service facility where staff deals with all aspects of service from crystal selection to publication of results. In-house training is a requirement if you wish to use the equipment yourself. Part of the UCLA Molecular Instrumentation Center, which is a campus wide facility open to the UCLA community. The facility also collaborates with personnel from other universities and industry both locally and internationally.

Website:

http://www.mic.ucla.edu/X-rays-Diffraction

Last modified 02-01-2022

The UCLA Lipidomics Laboratory provides the highest quality of quantitative lipid measurements from biological samples including cells, tissue, serum, and media. The lab offers automated sample preparation and two distinct mass spectrometry platforms: 1) shotgun lipidomics providing measurement of 1400 complex lipid species and 2) a fatty acid and sterols analysis compatible with isotopic labeling. Our full-service lab provides data analysis (including computational modeling of lipid flux parameters) and consultation services.

Website:

http://www.uclalipidomics.net/

Last modified 02-01-2022

Consultation and technical assistance available to researchers prior to, and following, experiments. Evaluation of sample via Dynamic Light Scattering. Automatic setup of 4000 crystallization conditions per hour using 500uL of sample. (Hanging or Sitting Drops). The Mosquito from TTP, Labcyte ECHO525 and Tecan GENESIS are used for Liquid Dispensing.  Capable of distinguishing between organic and inorganic crystals using a sophisticated UV/vis microscope. Optimization of crystallization conditions. Storage of plates in temperature controlled incubators at 4, 15, and 20C. Optimization of crystallization conditions using a library of 1,500 commercial compounds. Affinity and Kinetics Characterization with the ForteBio OCTET Red96 instrument. The Labcyte ECHO 525 is used for acoustic liquid dispensing. Production of stereolithography files from Pymol, 3D design of labware, 3D printing.

Website:

http://www.doe-mbi.ucla.edu/crystallization/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Lab at the Molecular Instrumentation Center (MIC) is heavily used with broad participation of users from many disciplines. Researchers from many different research groups in 12 different campus departments, make use of the instrumentation in the NMR lab after a thorough training process. The major equipment available consists of six NMR spectrometers: Bruker AV600, DRX500, AV500, AV400, AV300 for liquid samples and AV600 for solid-state samples. Most spectrometers are equipped with broadband probes covering frequencies from 31P to 15N, the AV500 is equipped with a cryoprobe capable of only 1H and 13C experiments, and 19F experiments are available on the AV300 and AV400. Variable temperature and multipulse experiments are also available.

Website:

http://www.mic.ucla.edu/magnetic-resonance-spectroscopy

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Mass Spectrometry Laboratory provides a wide range of sample characterization techniques for researchers. Mass spectrometry services include: (1) a variety of ionization methods including electron, chemical, matrix assisted laser desorption, direct analysis in real time, electrospray, and atmospheric pressure chemical ionization, (2) a variety of analyzers including time of flight, quadrupole, ion trap, Orbitrap, and several tandem combinations of mass analyzers, and (3) microflow, nanoflow and regular flow liquid chromatography. For proteomics studies, equipment is available for running 1-D and 2-D gels and protein/peptide identification. In addition, the facility provides consultation for sample preparation, experimental design, analysis of protein expression patterns, data mining, and operation of the various instruments. This laboratory is a part of the UCLA Molecular Instrumentation Center.

Website:

http://www.mic.ucla.edu/mass-spectrometry

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Materials Characterization Laboratory offers thermal, optical, microscopic, electrical, and magnetic characterization of materials and elemental analysis of surfaces via a wide range of instruments including: (1) light scattering spectrometers, (2) several spectrophotometers, (3) scanning probe microscopes (AFM/STM), (4) a SQUID magnetometer, (5) a scanning electron microscope, and (6) an X-Ray photoelectron spectrometer. This laboratory is a part of the UCLA Molecular Instrumentation Center.

Website:

http://www.mic.ucla.edu/materials-characterization

Last modified 02-01-2022

The UCLA Metabolomics Center enables investigators to study metabolism with a particular focus on central carbon metabolism and several branch pathways (glycolysis, pentose phosphate pathway, TCA cycle, nucleos(t)ide synthesis, etc.). Metabolite analysis can be performed on a variety of specimens (e.g. cultured cells, culture medium, blood, urine, tissue). Generally, relative amounts of metabolites are measured, but absolute amounts can be determined as well. Tracing experiments using stable isotope-labeled metabolites (D, C-13, N-15) are routinely performed. For data analysis, relative amounts of metabolites as well as mass isotopologue distributions (if isotope tracing was performed) are calculated. Results are illustrated using bar graphs, heatmaps, principal component analysis, and mapping to Cytoscape maps. Customized analysis is available.

Website:

http://systems.crump.ucla.edu/metabolomics_center/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Molecular Screening Shared Resource (MSSR) is a core facility open to all research labs on campus. The services provided include the use of high throughput screening (HTS) technology, a total of roughly 200,000 compounds in various libraries, arrayed cDNA, siRNA, shRNA and CRISPR sets for the mouse/humane genome. Individual clones are any of these libraries (including CRISPR) are available. The MSSR is currently funded by the JCCC and the California NanoSystems Institute as well as grants from the NIH and DOD.

Website:

https://www.mssr.ucla.edu

Last modified 02-01-2022

The NMR Core Facility provides advanced NMR spectrometers and related equipment for the study of macromolecular structure and dynamics in solution by experienced users. In this capacity the core facility primarily provides the research tools in which to perform detailed measurements on complex biological systems. Non-expert members of the DOE laboratory receive access to NMR spectroscopy for more routine applications. These applications include: screening wild-type and mutated protein samples to determine their structural integrity, making small molecule binding affinity measurements, and temperature and denaturant studies of protein stability.

Website:

https://www.doe-mbi.ucla.edu/nuclear-magnetic-resonance-nmr-core-technology-center/

Last modified 02-01-2022

Provides consultation, training, and access to and technical assistance for metabolomics, proteomics (top-down and bottom-up) and targeted small molecule quantitation using mass spectrometry and chromatography.

Website:

https://massspec.chem.ucla.edu/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Protein Expression Technology Center (PETC) was founded in 1994 to facilitate the expression and purification of proteins for structure/function studies. The PETC provides support in all aspects of protein expression from cloning through expression optimization and protein purification. The PETC is a UCLA-DOE Institute for Genomics and Proteomics facility but is open to all researchers.

Website:

http://www.doe-mbi.ucla.edu/expression/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The UCLA Proteome Research Center is a full-service technology center that offers a comprehensive suite of proteomic services to the UCLA community and other partnering institutions. By bringing together state-of-the-art instrumentation and high- level technical staff, the goal of the facility is to transform traditional experimental paradigms by providing investigators access to powerful analytical workflows for systems-level characterization of complex biological systems, biomarker discovery and validation, and protein complex characterization. Available services include: (1) complex protein mixture analysis using single and multidimensional fractionation strategies, (2) peptide quantitation using SILAC, iTRAQ / TMT, and label-free methodologies, (3) targeted and global PTM enrichment and characterization approaches, (4) identification of protein interaction networks using affinity-based isolation and proximity tagging techniques, and (5) targeted proteomic assay development using parallel reaction monitoring (PRM) for relative and absolute quantitation.

Website:

http://www.uclaproteomics.net/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The UCLA-DOE and Biochemistry Shared Instrumentation core facility provides the UCLA research community open access to sophisticated equipment for biochemical studies. These facilities house a wide array of detection systems useful for analysis, quantification, and identification of all types of macromolecules and their molecular interactions. It also carries equipment for cell culturing, harvesting, lysis, and high-speed centrifugation useful for biomolecule preparation.

Website:

http://biochem.cores.ucla.edu/general_info/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The UCLA Nanofabrication Laboratory (UCLA NanoLab) is a shared-use clean-room that provides state-of-the-art equipment, facilities, and technical expertise for fabricating the most demanding nano-scale structures and devices. The UCLA NanoLab was created to support all aspects of nanofabrication-related research and to advance research and learning in nano-science. Services include: (1) e-beam lithography, (2) optical lithography, (3) thin-film deposition, (4) dry etch, (5) thermal processing, (6) metrology, and (7) access to integrated bio-suites.

Website:

http://nanolab.ucla.edu/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The X-ray Crystallography Core Technology Center in the Department of Engineering provides state-of-the-art resources to researchers, enabling the detailed 3-D analysis of biological macromolecules that play essential roles in human health. The facility operates as a full service core that offers access to sophisticated equipment and technologies as well as advice and technical assistance in sample preparation, data collection, processing, atomic refinement, and modeling. Services include: (1) aid in crystallization, (2) X-ray characterization of crystals, (3) In-House data collection of X-ray and micro Electron Diffraction and at the synchrotron, (4) processing and quality analysis of data, and (5) structure determination and display.

Website:

http://www.doe-mbi.ucla.edu/x-ray-crystallography-core-technology-center/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The Computer Shop provides technical support for research, teaching, and administrative functions.  One IT Programmer/Analyst is on staff with expertise in Macintosh, IBM clone computers, peripherals, printers, and network interfacing, including installation, setup, upgrades, demonstration, troubleshooting, repair, and modification services. The Computer Shop also provides design, development, and installation of local area networks, specifying hubs, network cards, cable types, and software. Consultation is provided to determine appropriate hardware/software solutions.

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Last modified 02-01-2022

The Integrated Nanomaterials Laboratory (INML) is a state-of-the-art nanomaterials synthesis and characterization facility. INML addresses the critical technological needs of the future through material development as nanoscience is integrated with disciplines such as electronics, photonics, renewable energy, chemistry, biology, and physics. Services include: (1) epitaxial services and research expertise and (2) molecular beam epitaxy facilities.

Website:

https://inml.cnsi.ucla.edu/

Last modified 02-01-2022

The UCLA Nanofabrication Laboratory (UCLA NanoLab) is a shared-use clean-room that provides state-of-the-art equipment, facilities, and technical expertise for fabricating the most demanding nano-scale structures and devices. The UCLA NanoLab was created to support all aspects of nanofabrication-related research and to advance research and learning in nano-science. Services include: (1) e-beam lithography, (2) optical lithography, (3) thin-film deposition, (4) dry etch, (5) thermal processing, (6) metrology, and (7) access to integrated bio-suites.

Website:

http://nanolab.ucla.edu/