Molecular Core Facility

If you have questions, please contact :

Vincent Roggero

Office: ISC 3047

Lab: ISC 3059

phone: 757-221-3717

email: Molecular Biology Core Facility [[molecularcore]]

Facility Services

Core Lab services are available to all faculty members of the Biology Department. Students whose research projects require use of Core Lab instrumentation are trained in principles of operation and maintenance of instruments by Core Lab personnel.

DNA Sequencing (Sanger Method)

Standard sequencing is conducted with Applied Biosystems, Inc (ABI) technology supported by the ABI 3500 Genetic Analyzer. Optional sequence data analysis can be performed with the use of ABI Variant Reporter software.

How to Submit a Sequencing Request

Prepare Samples:

All samples must be in PCR reaction tubes, labeled with consecutive numbers only.
Template: : 200–400 ng plasmid DNA or 20–100 ng PCR product DNA.
Primer: 2–4 $\mu$ M oligonucleotide.
Volume: The total volume of primer and template mix must be 8 $\mu$ l. Use $ddH_2O$ (not TE buffer) to adjust volume.

Submit Online: Complete the Online Sequencing Request Form

Note: When assigning sample names, do not use special characters (: ; " / ? ! etc). Dashes and underscores are permitted.

Drop-off: After submitting the request, leave your sample tray in the Molecular Prep Room (ISC 3031) in the 4°C refrigerator, bottom right drawer.

Gene Mapping and Fragment Analysis

The Core Lab offers resources to conduct various genotyping and fragment analysis protocols, supported by ABI GeneMapper software.

Real-Time and Digital PCR

Real-Time PCR: Two instruments are available: StepOne (48-well) and StepOne Plus (96-well). Both support quantitative assays, gene expression, and genotyping.
Digital PCR: For absolute target quantification or rare target detection (SNP/pathogens), the lab offers the Bio-Rad QX200 platform.

DNA, RNA, and Protein Analysis

Agilent Bioanalyzer: Lab-on-a-chip technology for high-resolution quantification of RNA, DNA, and proteins.
Spectrophotometry: Analysis is supported by NanoDrop One or Qubit spectrophotometers.
Microplate Reader: The Bio-Rad iMark (400–750 nm) provides solutions for immunoassays and colorimetric protein assays.

Imaging Systems

Infrared Imaging: The Odyssey CLx by Li-Cor provides support for Western Blot applications using Image Studio software.
Gel Imaging: The Bio-Rad GelDoc EZ produces publication-quality images with four application-specific trays.

Cell Sorting

For automated cell sorting needs, the lab offers the Bio-Rad S3e. This system features two lasers, up to four fluorescence detectors, and forward/side-scatter detectors.