Bioinformatics Core
The Bioinformatics Core collaborates with scientists to provide essential data management and analysis tools along with experimental design consulting using continually updated workflows. The Core also specializes in custom database and analysis software development.
A major initiative of the Core is the development of the Comparative Models of Regeneration Database (RegenDB) to provide a systems-level view of regenerative biology and stem cell self-renewal. This resource is part of the MDI Biological Laboratory’s Center of Biomedical Research Excellence (COBRE) that focuses on regeneration, tissue repair, and aging.
The Core also serves as a statewide resource for the Maine IDeA Network for Biomedical Research Excellence (ME-INBRE) program in comparative functional genomics by providing essential consulting and training in bioinformatics.
Light Microscopy Facility
The Light Microscopy Facility (LMF) provides various confocal and widefield light microscopes as well as expert staff to provide training and assistance in their use.
With a firm belief that access to state-of-the-art infrastructure is essential to successful and high-quality research, MDIBL has invested significantly in the plant and people of our microscopy core. The LMF provides professional scientific expertise with a dedicated facility manager, and microscopes are available for use by MDIBL faculty, the Maine INBRE network and their collaborators, as well to summer students and visiting scientists to help them answer their research questions.
The facility is also available for educational purposes for both undergraduate and postgraduate students working at the institute or undertaking courses hosted on the MDIBL campus.
Animal Resources Core
The Animal Resources Core provides extensive expertise and facilities for aquatic model husbandry and experimental use. The Core is equipped with Aquaneering aquatic systems in 2,000 square feet of dedicated space and responsible for the husbandry of Zebrafish, African turquoise killifish and axolotl year-round. In the summer months, they extend their care to additional invertebrate and non-mammalian vertebrates needed for courses and visiting scientists, such as cane toads, turtles, salmon, local killifish, goldfish, and xenopus (African clawed frogs).
Expertise and resources are available to perform:
- Custom platforms for antisense morpholino and cDNA microinjection
- Fully automated Zebralab workstation to conduct high content imaging and behavioral assays
- iWorx ECG system for cardiotoxicity studies
- Adaptable and scalable drug screening and assay development