The Molecular Biology Unit (UBM) offers standardized nucleic acid sequencing services and fragment analysis by capillary electrophoresis. These services are aimed to provide technical support and scientific advice to researchers of the institute and other public or private research organizations, companies and centers across the region.
It also offers advice for the experimental design of genomic and transcriptomic studies through DNA microarrays or massive sequencing. It has a microarray scanner (Agilent) and a high capacity sequencer (Illumina) that allows the realization of a wide spectrum of experiments.
Study of the intracellular host-pathogen interaction with a systemic approach
At the UBM we studied virulence factors of intracellular pathogens, as well as the host genes and routes necessary for the establishment of the infection, and the interface between them. Based on this, one of our objectives is the design of new strategies for the treatment or prevention of various infectious pathologies, like Chagas disease, African trypanosomiasis, leishmaniasis, and tuberculosis.Determination of virulence factors necessary for T.cruzi infection.
For the establishment and persistence of T. cruzi infection, we have described a set of proteins related to the redox metabolism of trypanosomatids (triparedoxin cytosolic and mitochondrial peroxidase, triparredoxins, glutarredoxins, pteridin reductase), characterizing them from the structural and functional point of view. We are developing strategies to inhibit them, and applying them in the development of therapeutic and preventive strategies.Characterization of changes in gene expression produced by intracellular parasites in human cells
We have shown that T.cruzi triggers a cellular reprogramming that allows the establishment and persistence of the infection in human cells. One of our objectives is to identify host proteins, which, when inhibited, prevent T. cruzi infection. We are also extending this strategy for genomic and molecular biology studies in leishmaniasis, African trypanosomiasis, neosporosis and tuberculosis.
DNA sequencing (Sanger method)
The UBM has the only facility in Uruguay for DNA sequencing service that performs sequencing using the Sanger Method and fragment analysis. We are working with a Genetic Analyzer 3130 (Applied BioSystems), and recently we acquired a 3500 Genetic Analyzer (Applied BioSystems), which will improve performance. The unit receives samples from private and public institutions throughout the country.
Bellow we will find the cost of the services provided by the unit:Service Cost (US$)* Coupon book x100 (US$)* Private Secuence 7 600 20 Fragments 2,5 200 5 Purification 2,5 200 5 * Prices for academic sector (national and international)
The coupons expires 12 months after purchase.
– For the purchase of services, please write to: tecnologia@pasteur.edu.uy
– For consultation techniques or other services, please write to: ubm@pasteur.edu.uy
– To submit samples it is necessary to complete the following forms:
Microarrays
The Agilent platform is still being used for transcriptomic studies of complex organisms, mainly human and bovine samples. There is also sporadic cooperation with private clinics that use Comparative Genomic Hybridization in diagnostics (for example, genetic diagnoses prior to implantation).
Deep sequencing
The Illumina device has led to the beginning of the Genomics Program, and is now widely used in different applications, mainly genomics and transcriptomics of pathogens (bacteria and unicellular protozoa). We also provide practical training on how to use the equipment and analyze the data, in order to stimulate the autonomy of other laboratories in the application of next-generation sequencing in their research.
DNA sequencer / analyzer
Real-time PCR
Microarray reader
Microarray hybridizer
BioAnalyzer
General molecular biology instrumentation
MiSeq Illumina
“Functional Genomics and its applications in biomedicine: Host-Pathogen interaction”. RIIP/UNU-Biolac Course. November 2014