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

A high performance liquid chromatography system with semi-preparative capability is requested to support the research programs of Dr. Prithiviraj (Rhizosphere plant-microbe interaction / bioactivity of seaweeds) and Dr. Rouvinen-Watt (The role of n-3/n-6 fatty acids in mink nursing sickness, obesity and fatty liver disease). This equipment will complement research activities of two NSERC discovery grants, a NSERC-AAFC-RPA and a NSERC-CRD grant application. This equipment will also be used to carry out applicant's projects funded by Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture and Atlantic Innovation Fund. Further, availability of the analytical and semi-preparative capability of this equipment will help attract additional research funding from federal and provincial government agencies and industries. The configuration requested fits the requirements of both research programs. The system consists of a Waters Preparative LC System with a Quartenary pump capable of handling isocratic and gradient protocols with multiple mobile phases, this capability is essential to effectively fractionate complex analytes like root exudates, plant extracts, serum and animal tissue samples. Organic compounds present in root exudates, microbial secretions, amino acid and fatty acid are susceptible to degradation at ambient temperatures and required to be stored and analysed at low temperatures. To achieve this a Waters 717 temperature controlled autosampler is included in the system. Two detectors, a Waters 2996 photo diode array detector (PDA) and a Waters 2475 multichannel fluorescence detector, are requested as it will enable the applicants to use the instrument for multiple functions. This HPLC system will enhance the analytical capability and productivity of two collaborating research groups. More importantly, this equipment will be used to train 23 Highly Qualified Personnel (HQPs) during the next four years.