Services

The Illinois Genetic Marker Center is a self-service genotyping facility where center users control their progress of research from start to finish. The Illinois Genetic Marker Center provides the necessary equipment, supplies and training for researchers to produce SSR (microsatellite), AFLP or other PCR-based marker data including SNP's. By providing the labor for the work the researchers realize a cost savings as well as gaining valuable hands on experience.

We have a variety of basic equipment used in molecular biological research including an MJ Research Tetrad thermocycler, a Robbins Scientific Hydra96 liquid handler, a Roche LightCycler 480, a Luminex 100 system, four ABI Prism 377 machines and several computer workstations. At minimum, the researcher supplies extracted DNA and labor. We can provide all the equipment and supplies to produce various marker data from the supplied DNA. We also provide the user with data storage, backup and analysis software.

In order to accommodate our users schedules, we have an web-based equipment scheduling system. Users can view and add to the schedule from anywhere using a web browser. Access to the lab is controlled via an electronic lock using an I-Card. The key-card lock system allows users to work on their schedule.

Lab usage fees are broken into two parts: supplies and equipment usage. The fees are based on our costs, and are subject to change. For more information please contact us.

Selected Equipment

Roche LightCycler 480
The 384 well PCR system enables you to perform real-time PCR, with multiple PCR applications. Some sequence specific detection methods include genotyping using hydrolysis probes such as ABI TaqMan® assays other probe formats include Roche Simple Probes and Hyb Probes. Using sequence specific probes such as Hyb Probes and Simple probes you can detect SNP’s. You can also detect SYBR Green I dye for PCR applications. The 384 well format allows you to reduce the sample size saving on reagent costs. We have software to help you design probes for your specific needs and we can help you with assay design and development. There is a low hourly cost to use the instrument. If you have interest in these applications please contact the Center.
480 FAQ's

SNP detection using Luminex 100 System
The Luminex 100 Flow Cytometer is a versatile platform that is compatible with many types of SNP detection methods.
SNPs – single nucleotide polymorphisms, are single DNA base substitutions or small insertions deletions (indels) at specific base positions.

Luminex FAQ's

The ABI Prism 377 DNA sequencing machines are the workhorses of the laboratory. The use of automated sequencers offers many advantages over traditional genotyping techniques. We are using them in conjunction with Rapidload membrane combs from The Gel Company to produce up to 96 lanes of data per gel. The 377's can identify down to 1bp differences in fragments.

The Robbins Scientific Hydra 96 simplifies setting up 96 and 384 well plates for PCR. We also use it to multiplex PCR products before loading into the ABI 377. It is fast, easy, accurate and less wasteful than single or multichannel pipetting.

The MJ Research Tetrad thermocycler contains four units; two for 96 well plates and two for 384 well plates. It is capable of gradient thermocycling which can be useful in protocol optimization.

Center users are able to analyze and archive data using computer workstations utilizing the centers server enabling users to manage, store and access data easily.