Darkfield: We are currently constructing a new high-speed single molecule imaging rig that uses darkfield imaging to provide sub-millisecond time resolution to study interaction dynamics in a completely new time regime.

OAF: This is a dedicated single molecule instrument capable of both TIRF and OAF in three colours simultaneously. The system uses 488nm laser excitation and images are captured using an Andor EMCCD DU897 camera.

AKTA: We have two AKTA protein purification stations with a variety of available columns to enable us to purify a large number of proteins quickly and efficiently.

ITC: Isothermal Titration Calorimetry is used to to measure affinity for protein-protein and protein-ligand interactions. ITC directly measures the heat exchanged during a biomolecular binding event.  This allows accurate determination of binding constants (KB), reaction stoichiometry (n), enthalpy (∆H) and entropy (ΔS), thereby providing a complete thermodynamic profile of the molecular interaction in a single experiment.

Fluorimetry: We have a Perkin Elmer LS55 Fluorescence Spectrometer equipped with a microtiterplate reader. This is used for small-volume analysis of the effect of potential inhibitors upon amyloid formation.

Office: We also have specific space for image analysis and storage; imaging platforms in the laboratory are backed up by a dedicated network from which data can be accessed. For the custom systems portable hard-drives are used.

Imaging Lab: We have a well-equipped imaging laboratory that has plenty of wet-lab space and dedicated darkrooms containing  our custom built OAF, TIRF and darkfield systems plus some  multi-user instrument such as confocals and widefield microscopes. These are maintained by a dedicated imaging manager.

Department of Biological Science
University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, CO4 3SQ, United Kingdom
Tel +44 (0) 1206 873333
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