 DNA Sequencing Unit
DNA sequencing is a fundamental component of molecular biology and genetics research. Because of advances in DNA sequencing technology, sequencers are now capable of high throughput analysis in shorter time spans. The Department boasts an ABI PRISM 3100 DNA Sequencer, which is used for teaching, and an ABI PRISM 3130xl DNA Sequencer, which is used for research. Both are handled by a trained team of laboratory officers. The DNA sequencing team comprises one academic staff member, a Principal Lab Officer and seven laboratory officers.
Prospective users should approach Ms. June Koh (mickgn@nus.edu.sg; 6516 3290) for inquiries.
Flow Cytometry Unit
Since November 2003, the Department has provided in-house flow cytometry services for research purposes. The Cytomics FC 500 flow cytometer (Beckman Coulter) contains two lasers: a 488nm argon air cooled laser and a collinear 633 nm helium-neon laser. The filter blocks enable detection of the following commonly used fluorochromes: FITC, PE-Cy5, ECD, APC, PC7 or APC-Cy7. The Department flow cytometry team comprises one academic staff member and three laboratory officers.
Prospective users should approach Mrs. Thong Khar Tiang (mictktnc@nus.edu.sg; 6516 3269) to discuss project details.
 Bioimaging Room
The microscopic analysis of cells is becoming an increasingly important component of cell biology and immunology research. The Department bioimaging room houses a variety of microscopes for research use. Depending on the application, users may choose between conventional light, inverted or fluorescent microscopy. Image capture and analysis functions are also available. For high-end bioimaging needs researchers may also approach the Confocal Unit at NUMI (National University Medical Institutes) or the neighbouring School of Medicine Electron Microscopy Unit where electron, confocal and atomic force microscopy services are available. The Department houses a Leica SP5 confocal microscope, with UV/405 nm, Argon laser for 458/477/488 and 514 nm excitation, and HeNe for additional excitation wavelengths.
Prospective users of the Departmental confocal microscope should approach Mrs. Phoon Meng Chee (micpmc@nus.edu.sg; 6516 3670) for inquiries.
Microarray and PCR Unit
This facility provides equipment for classical and real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis. A Roche LightCycler is available for small sample sizes while a BioRad iCycler can accommodate up to 96 samples using microtitre plate format. Microarrays are useful for studying global gene expression in a high-throughput fashion that enables researchers to get a better picture of gene expression profiles. The unit houses a Lucidea Slidepro microarray hybridization machine and a Gene Pix 4000B microarray scanner (both from Amersham Pharmacia Biotech).
Common Equipment Laboratories
The common equipment laboratory, located on level 3 on the Department, provides an array of research resources for staff and students. Equipment for common use include minus 70°C freezers, CO2 incubators, biosafety cabinets, laminar flow hoods, centrifuges, fluorometers, spectrophotometers and High performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) machines.
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