In addition to the resources in individual laboratories, there are a number of research core facilities at Washington University that are available to all participants in our Training Programs. Some examples are:
- Mouse Cardiovascular Phenotyping Core (MCPC): The Mouse Cardiovascular Phenotyping Core is a unique resource in the Center for Cardiovascular Research providing state-of-the-art expertise and facilities for exploring the physiology and pathophysiology of the mouse cardiovascular system. Present capabilities include: echocardiography, hemodynamic (catheter based) measurements, blood pressure (cuff) monitoring, functional assessment of the isolated working heart, exercise training, stress testing, telemetric electrocardiographic monitoring and surgical manipulations, such as aortic banding and coronary ligations.
- Genome Technology Access Center (GTAC): The Genome Technology Access Center was established in the Department of Genetics to provide cutting-edge and cost-effective sequencing and analysis technologies. GTAC provides investigators with expertise and technical support in sample preparation for microarray, PCR and high-throughput sequencing studies, as well as data analyses and bioinformatics expertise and support.
- Washington University Center for Cellular Imaging (WUCCI): Established as a state-of-the-art cellular imaging facility by the Departments of Neuroscience and Cell Biology & Physiology, WUCCI provides technical expertise and assistance in experimental design and sample preparation, as well as the development, application and implementation of new imaging technologies and data analysis methods.
- The Genome Engineering & Stem Cell Center: Established at Washington University as a core facility to provide investigators a variety of custom genome editing services. GEiC uses zinc finger nucleases (ZFNs), transcription activator-like effector nucleases (TALENs), and clustered regularly spaced palindromic repeats (CRISPRs) to create targeted modifications of mammalian genomes to speed scientific discovery and to validate therapeutic targets.
- Mouse Genetics Core (MGC): The MGC is a service, sponsored by the Departments of Developmental Biology, Neurology, Neuroscience, Medicine and Pediatrics, established to provide cost-effective methods for generating/maintaining genetically altered mice for the Washington University research community. The MGC will inject plasmids (into blastocysts) and embryonic stem cells to generate transgenic and targeted deletion animals. Other services include animal husbandry, sperm and embryo freezing, genotyping, speed congenics and rederivations.
- Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell Core (iPSC Core): The iPSC Core facility was established in the Department of Genetics to facilitate the application of induced pluripotent stem cell technology, enabling investigators to leverage the large and diverse patient populations treated at Washington University Medical Center to investigate, and potentially treat, human diseases in novel ways.
- Biomedical Mass Spectrometry Resource (MSR): The MSR facilitates and supports research programs in targeted and untargeted proteomics, lipidomics, metabolomics, and stable isotope labeled biomolecules. In addition, the MSR is engaged in developing new experimental platforms, software and analytical methods, and in the training the next generation of translational scientists interested in biomedical applications of mass spectrometry.
- Institute for Clinical and Translational Sciences (ICTS): The ICTS established in 2006, provides state-of-the-art research infrastructure, education, training, financial and research resources and support for investigators to facilitate clinical and translational research. The ICTS is supported by a Clinical and Translational Science Award (CTSA) from the National Institutes of Health.
- Histology Core Facilities: There are multiple core facilities available to cut (cryostat, paraffin, plastic and vibratome) and stain tissue sections. Routine in-situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry can also be performed. In two of these facilities, the equipment for cutting and processing tissue is available for use by investigators.
- Electronics and Machine Shops: There are several electronics and machine shops throughout the Medical Center available for the fabrication and repair of electronic equipment, as well as shops for the design and construction of small and large specialty devices and equipment.