MASS SPECTROMETRY AND PROTEOMICS CORE

 

Mass Spectrometry and Proteomics Core

Vicki Wysocki, University of Arizona

Abstract:
The mass spectrometry and proteomics core has three main roles:

1. Core mass spectrometry and proteomics services offered on a fee-per-sample basis to any RCE project or Region IX investigator who needs the service
2. Technology development that will address future analysis needs of RCE investigators
3. Targeted collaborative projects directly supporting projects in the RCE. Two sites are involved, University of Arizona and UCLA UCLA and UA were chosen for their geographic distribution across Region IX and the complementary expertise of the participating faculty and staff. Vicki Wysocki from UA and Joseph Loo from UCLA direct these efforts.

Specific aims of the Mass Spectrometry/Proteomics Core efforts are to

1. Hold workshops for RCE project members to familiarize them with what proteomics can offer their projects
2. Develop protocols for fractionation of proteins from model organisms and perform protein identification on the resulting fractions
3. Develop protocols for depletion of abundant proteins from serum,
4. Establish collaboration with Isis/Ibis Pharmaceutical to apply the TIGER biosensor platform in a clinical setting and develop this PCR/mass spectrometry based approach as a useful rapid ID and strain typing option to be used instead of protein characterization when appropriate
5. Develop a bioaffinity mass spectrometry approach in which protein antigens of an infective agent are assayed by capturing them on chips to which appropriate antibodies are attached
6. Perform proteomic analysis on two morphologies of Coccidioides immitis to identify vaccine candidates and by illustrating this approach, assist other RCE investigators in the use of proteomics for vaccine development
7. Test applicability of 2D difference gel electrophoresis (2D-DIGE) for measuring proteome response related to pathogen exposure
8. Continue collaborations of the core with specific RCE projects.