ProteomicsDirector
Alan Friedman, Ph.D. Mission StatementThe mission of the Proteomics Core is to provide “state of the art” proteomic technology to support the work of the University personnel, from theoretical experimental design through clinical sample analysis. In addition to serving as a support lab, the Core also collaborates with other researchers to obtain internal and external funding. Statement of Core Services/FunctionsThe University of Rochester Proteomics Center provides protein characterization support, predominantly in the form of proteomic technology. The analytical strengths of the core are mass spectrometry and separation sciences. In a classical proteomic application, a complex sample matrix, such as serum, is separated into individual protein fractions, the identities of which are then determined with mass spectrometry. The core processes a myriad of sample types, from complex clinical matrices to simple purified proteins, for identification of unknowns or verification of identity. Separations are done primarily with gel electrophoresis or column chromatography. Gel electrophoresis separates the components of a complex matrix based on molecular weight in a single dimension experiment, or isoelectric point then molecular weight for two dimensional experiments. Automated column chromatography separates matrices based on both isoelectric point and hydrophobicity, using the new Proteome PF2D system. Enzymatic digestions can be performed on fractions separated with either technique to perform “bottom up” proteomics as well. Mass spectrometry (MS) determines the identity of the proteins isolated from sample matrices. Ion trap mass spectrometry is an electrospray technique that traps ions, separates them by mass using radiofrequency tuning, and has the ability to find post-translational modifications by various MSn experiments. Matrix assisted laser desorption ionization time of flight mass spectometry (MALDI TOF/TOF) uses laser excitation to lift ions from dried sample spots on a steel plate into the gas phase, then focuses them using a reflectron to generate high accuracy mass measurements. Surface enhanced (matrix-assisted) laser desorption ionization (SELDI) uses MALDI TOF principles for generating mass measurements, with the difference that SELDI uses binding materials on the metal surface to specifically select the ions of choice to be analyzed. Specific Instrumentation/Equipment
Faculty User GroupThe following faculty members serve on the faculty advisory group for this core: |