NCCOS Project Explorer (NPE)

Applied Marine Genomics Core(2010)

Project Description:
The Functional Marine Genomics Core is a resource for DNA library construction and arraying, microarray design and application, and gene expression analysis for CHHR and CCEHBR projects and those carried out by HML partner institutions. The Core provides and supports the use of cutting-edge genomics technologies and analysis techniques. High throughput robotics are used for colony picking, library arraying, and large scale parallel nucleic acid preparations. The Core microarray facility performs gene expression analysis experiments, including sample extraction, sample labeling, hybridization, scanning, signal extraction, data analysis and data warehousing. Core services range from training users to work independently on Core instrumentation to full service application of genomics technologies by Core staff. The Core also provides assistance with experimental design and oversees the quality of data generated. The core maintains Rosetta Resolver gene expression analysis software and assists users in its application. Permanent storage of all gene expression data in Rosetta Resolver gene expression analysis and warehousing software. Individual researchers also keep a copies of gene expression data at their home institutions for purposes of gene expression analysis if they choose not to use Core software, as well as for data sharing with off-site collaborators. The scope of technologies and services provided by the core are determined in consultation with the HML Genomics Council and are expected to evolve as technologies advance. The current key focus (2009) is the application of microarrays for research on both marine organisms and model organisms useful for investigating coastal environmental and human health effects of changing coastal conditions. The objective of the Genomics Core is to provide HML partners with state-of-the-art genomics tools that generate superior quality data for high-impact research.

Expected Outcome:
The application of cutting-edge molecular technologies requires specialized training, expertise, and instrumentation that is not feasible to maintain in individual research laboratories, particularly labs specializing in issues that are priority research areas for NOAA: understanding the impacts of a variety of stressors on coastal environmental health and human health. The Marine Genomics Core facility provides the expertise and instrumentation to enable a wide variety of research projects from CHHR, CCEHBR and partner institutions to engage in cutting-edge molecular approaches in a way that ensures high quality of research output. In addition to providing service, training, and guidance in the application of current genomics tools, the Core is expected to ensure that genomics capabilities at HML remain state-of-the art through the addition of emerging technologies and instrumentation.