Grant: Research Tools and Instruments - Category 1 (<$150,000)

Proteomics represents an integrated systems biology approach to scientific practice. This discipline has come to the forefront of biology due to the completion of the human genome and the advancement of key analytical tools such as biological mass spectrometry (MS). High-throughput mass spectrometers (nLC/MS/MS) possessing so called "nanospray" ion sources are the workhorse instruments for most proteomic applications due to their ability to rapidly and precisely determine the identity of a large number of biomolecules present in biological samples at sub-femtomole levels. We currently have several projects that require this methodology but lack a system capable of performing nLC/MS/MS proteomic applications. What is present is an excellent tandem mass spectrometer that would be capable of most proteomic applications if it were upgraded with "nanoflow" and "nanospray" capabilities. Therefore, the requested infrastructure includes a system upgrade (hardware and software) to produce a nLC/MS/MS system capable of the latest cutting edge proteomic techniques. We urgently require the proposed infrastructure for the training goals proposed in Univ. of Windsor's only NSERC CREATE proposal, to accomplish objectives listed in the NSERC Discovery Grants of the applicant and co-applicants, CIHR objectives of the applicant, and for routine mass spectrometry needs of the applicant, co-applicants, and collaborators whose work is funded by NSERC, the Canadian Cancer Society, and the Cancer Research Society.