Research Core Facilities

Small Animal Imaging

Dan Gazit, PhD Core Director
This Core provides cutting edge imaging technologies and expertise to promote clinical translation of research discoveries and to provide an interdisciplinary environment for investigators interested in molecular imaging using small animal models. The state-of-the-art instruments will make it possible to visualize and quantify, in a non-invasive manner, the location and expression levels of specific genes and proteins that are thought to play important roles in human disease. The facility consists of an area of 2,000 square feet and includes a range of in-vivo small animal imaging modalities such as microPET/CT/SPECT, magnetic resonance, fluorescence, bio luminescence and ultrasound.

Confocal Microscopy Core

Kolja Wawrowsky, PhD, Director
The Confocal Microscopy Core provides high resolution, multidimensional fluorescent imaging of cells and tissues to the Research Institute community. The study of molecular processes inside cells is of great importance for the understanding of disease processes. The confocal facility contributes by providing a wide array of state-of-the-art imaging and analysis methods. Interactions at a molecular level are visualized and quantified by Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer. 3D reconstruction and rendering of imaging data is essential for many publications and grant applications. The confocal core provides guidance in immuno-staining and experimental setup, as well as to assure optimal results for its users. Confocal microscopy has become an essential tool for modern biomedical research.

Flow Cytometry Core

David Underhill, PhD, Director
The Flow Cytometry and Cell Sorter Core (1) analyzes cells with light activated probes for the detection of molecular expression and cell characterization; (2) analyzes the life and death of cells, including cell destruction that may be useful in limiting tumor growth; (3) sorts cells, including quantification of cell surface determinants; and (4) assists researchers in understanding data and analysis programs.

Microarray Core

Charles Wang, Director
The Microarray Core at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center provides powerful research tools to aid investigators in understanding the regulation of gene activity at the molecular level. Microarray technology enables us to generate and analyze critical information from thousands of genes at a time. The Core is building a database that currently includes analyses of tissue from mice (aorta, fat pad, liver, pancreas), rats (muscle), and humans (pancreas, white blood cells). This high-technology laboratory uses the Affymetrix Gene Chip Instrument System with an Agilent Gene Array laser scanner to prepare and analyze DNA microchips, an ABI PRISM 7700 Sequence Detection System for quantification of individually selected genes for their activity, plus an Agilent Bioanalyzer 2100 and a GeneQuant spectrophotometer for quality control. This Core serves as a springboard for investigators by providing support and continuing education for data generation, analysis and publication.