The University of Toledo

CeDER CORE FACILITIES

 

Bioinformatics Imaging Center Flow Cytometry Electron Microscopy Facility Bone Biology Laboratory

To examine the role of specific genes in diseases, we generate unique genetically engineered mouse models. To diagnose whether mice develop diabetes and obesity, we depend on rich core facilities. To this end, we have developed an Animal Phenotyping Core and joined a Regional Diabetes Center, administered by the University of Michigan, that makes available at low cost many state-of-the-art services and equipment.

Pathology Core:

CeDER is equipped with a Nikon Eclipse 80i microscope that contains a 5 megapixel DS-Fi1 camera, polarizers, and  NIS-Elements imaging software to capture high resolution images and sample polarization, and to carry out advanced imaging analysis. Two pathologists, Dr. Cara Gatto-Weis, MD and Meenakshi Kaw, MD/PhD have received training on mouse pathology by completing an online course offered by UC Davis. Dr. Kaw is in charge of carrying out immunohistochemical analyses.    


Animal Phenotyping Core:

Micro-Computed Tomography Unit:
As part of the Bone Biology Laboratory, Dr. Beata Lecka-Czernik oversees the use of a ScancoCT Xray scanner suited for precise analysis of bone architecture and bone parameters of small rodents. Much like human diagnostics, the computed tomography unit allows for the monitoring of bone status, including its internal micro-architecture and strength, in different metabolic disorders and during the process of bone fracture healing.

Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) Instrument (Bruker Minispec LF50): 
This instrument measures body composition parameters, including fat mass, lean tissue mass and total body water in live mice.  

Advantages:

• Rapid measurements- two minutes
• Accuracy
• No need for anesthesia
• Longitudinal evaluation of body fat composition
• Cost-effectiveness: Mice are kept alive for further in vivo phenotypic evaluation 
  
  

Murine Metabolic Indirect Calorimetry Chambers (CLAMS)
In May, 2012, CeDER purchased 16 metabolic chambers [Columbus Instruments Comprehensive Lab Animal Monitoring System (CLAMS)]. These chambers are capable of monitoring open-circuit calorimetry, activity, feeding, drinking, and sleep detection. Optional features for expansion include monitoring of body mass, food access control, running, urine collection, core body temperature, and heart rate in an optional environmental chamber.

As configured, cages can give up to 96 hours of data on metabolic rate, respiratory quotient, consumption of food and water, spontaneous activity, circadian rhythm, and sleep detection. (The last 3 parameters can also be measured independently through use of separate actigraphy cages, which are also available and are housed in the same room).

Inquiries in regards of using these chambers should be directed to the office of the Director of CeDER (X4183).

Murine Actigraphy Cages
In June, 2011, Dr. Raymond Bourey purchased 16 cages to monitor and record X-Y activity with frequency of 10 seconds. For ease of use, data are collected and managed by the same software utilized in the Murine Metabolic Chambers available in the same room. This apparatus can be used for monitoring locomotion, determination of circadian rhythms, and detection of sleep bouts.
(Pack AI, Galante RJ, Maislin G, Cater J, Metaxas D, Lu S, Zhang L, Von Smith R, Kay T, Lian J, Svenson K, Peters LL. Novel method for high-throughput phenotyping of sleep in mice. Physiol Genomics 28: 232–238, 2007).

If you are interested in using these cages, please contact Dr. Bourey at raymond.bourey@utoledo.edu, X6858, or through the office of the Director of CeDER (X4183).




Free Radical Analyzer System (TRB4100):
Dr. Guillermo Vazquez oversees the use of this state-of-the-art analyzer which allows highly sensitive, specific and simultaneous real-time amperometric measurement of nitric oxide (NO) and hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂) release, using either cultured cells or freshly isolated tissues. This procedure provides an excellent opportunity to evaluate the extent of endothelial dysfunction and/or oxidative stress that is associated with different cardiovascular, metabolic and endocrine-related diseases. 


Other State-of-the-Art Equipment:

CeDER laboratories have acquired several real-time PCR instruments to measure changes in gene expression in disease and in response to therapy.

To complement gene expression studies, CeDER has acquired an Odyssey Infrared protein detector system. This system provides a sensitive and an accurate means for protein detection and quantification. It also allows for the simultaneous detection of multiple proteins, while saving on the cost of reagents.

Extramural Core Facilities:

The Michigan Diabe tes Research and Training Center (MDRTC) and The Proteomics Core at Wayne State University have made their core facilities available to CeDER members at the same low costs charged to MDRTC members. The following services are offered:

• Animal Phenotyping Core that includes metabolic cages and clamp analyses.
• Molecular Phenotyping Core (metabolomics services).
• Transgenic Core for generation of genetically altered mice.
• Vector Core for generation of vectors to target gene expression in live mice.
• MDRTC Chemistry Laboratory for measurement of serum metabolites and biochemistry.
  
• Electron Microscopy.
• Proteomics Core for characterization of protein identity and modifications.