USC

Custom Microarray Core

The Custom Microarray Core Facility, housed within the USC Institute for Genetic Medicine (IGM) Health Sciences Campus, is equipped with the most advanced instrumentation in this field.

It gives researchers access to cutting-edge genetic research through microarray technology. This sensitive, large-scale technology facilitates gene-expression, protein studies and genomic-alteration studies for a wide variety of organisms.

RNA Profiling
The Microarray Core supports all aspects of expression studies by microarrays: RNA extraction from tissue and cell culture, cDNA synthesis, cRNA amplification, probe labeling, hybridization to the microarray printed slides, scanning of the slides and analysis of the results. We support commercially produced arrays and also provide expertise for production of custom spotted array for more focused chips which are printed on microscope slides in our facility.

DNA Profiling

  • Methylation arrays, printed at the custom microarray core are available for methylation studies.
  • Molecular karyotyping arrays purchased from commercial manufactures are used to perform high-resolution genome scans detection of chromosomal imbalances. We also provide access to advanced genomic analysis software that takes data from a variety of array scanners and displays chromosomal deletions and amplifications in a unique graphic presentation for rapid interpretation of results.

      Protein Profiling
      We provide support for tissue arrays and protein arrays purchased from commercial manufactures.

      Other labware support
      We also provide automated Liquid Handler System for high throughput of complex microplate handling and full service of Real Time PCR experiments including primer design and optimization.

      1. The Microarray Core Facility