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Otago Genomics Facility
The Otago Genomics Facility (OGF) was established in July 2000 to provide University of Otago Researchers access to microarray technology. We provide researchers the ability to analyse patterns of gene expression in normal growth and development, and in disease.
The facility comprises two powerful technologies: gene expression microarrays and laser capture microdissection (LCM). The OGF microarray lab provides DNA microarray technology allowing researchers to determine gene expression levels using cDNAs and oligos arrayed on glass slides. The use of microarrays on glass slides provides a relatively simple means of obtaining large-scale expression data for thousands of individual genes from a single experiment. Microarray technology is revolutionising research into gene discovery, disease diagnosis and treatment, and drug development for diseases such as cancer.
Services available:
Standard slides: The facility prints standard Human, mouse and rat arrays which it on sells to facility users.
Custom Printing: The facility is available to print cDNA or Oligo custom arrays for users.
Equipment available:
The Otago Genomics Facility is not just a microarray facility. We offer support to people on campus involved in high throughput genomics research. We have equipment which is suitable for high throughput genomics work such as Agarose gel tanks 100 samples at a time. We also have 12 channel pipettes and a Beckman biomec 2000 liquid handling robot which makes large scale manipulation of DNA samples simple. We also have other equipment for high throughput experiments. This equipment is available to researchers who may need it from time to time but can't justify the large capital outlay.
Equipment in the facility also includes a robotic DNA microarrayer (SDDC-2, ESI), four colour laser fluorescent scanner (ScanArray 5000, Packard), robotics for DNA preparation (Biomek 2000, Beckman) and a laser dissection microscope (LM200, Arcturus).
LCM:
An integral part of the genomics facility is the arcturus laser capture microscope (administered by Dr Mike Legge The microscope is housed in the Biochemistry department. When used in conjunction with RNA amplification allows users to perform microarrays on specific cell types from very small tissue samples. The LCM is also avalible for other non-microarray applications. For access to the LCM contact the Genomics Facility or Dr Mike Legge .
Training:
Full training in use of the scanner, data extraction, normalisation and analysis software are provided for facility users.
Software:
Here is a list of some of the software and tools that are available and in use at the University of Otago. The Otago Genomics Facility is constantly reviewing software and analysis methods, so users should contact the facility for current information.
Experimental design help/Protocols:
PROTOCOLS ARE CONSTANTLY BEING UPDATED. Please contact Les McNoe for the latest versions and updates. We welcome your comments and suggestions. We are also avalible to assist with experimental design and planning.
Booking sheets:
The equipment booking calendars are here
Enquiries:
The Otago Genomics Facility welcomes enquiries from Academic and Commercial institutions both within and outside of New Zealand regarding available arrays, custom printing of cDNA/oligos, protocols, and microarray consultation.
Contact:
For further information contact the Facility Manager:
Les McNoe
Otago Genomics Facility
Biochemistry Department
PO Box 56
Dunedin
Tel 64 3 479 7876
Fax 64 3 479 7738
Email: les.mcnoe@stonebow.otago.ac.nz
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