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

This application is for a fast protein liquid chromatography (FPLC) instrument to be used in support of NSERC Discovery Grant programs of the applicants. The research programs involve: (i) elucidating pathways for the biosynthesis of biologically active small molecule natural products of microbial origin; (ii) studying the molecular mechanisms of protein recognition and import into chloroplasts in plant cells; and (iii) characterizing mechanisms of action and effects of aquatic contaminants on the reproductive endocrine systems of endemic and model fish species. The FPLC will make available to the Wilfrid Laurier University research community a critical tool for purifying proteins from a variety of natural sources. The ability to rapidly and efficiently generate pure proteins of interest is crucial to advancing our understanding of the roles these proteins play in their respective biological systems. For example, pure biosynthetic enzymes are required in order to study how they catalyze the synthesis of new antibiotics in bacteria, and understanding in molecular detail how proteins interact to regulate their import into chloroplasts requires that significant quantities of each interacting protein be available in high purity. Similarly, an FPLC will enable identification and characterization of protein biomarkers in fish that are associated with exposure to aquatic contaminants. In summary, the FPLC will provide an essential tool for generating pure proteins for studies that may ultimately lead to new antibiotics, improved agricultural productivity, and environmental protection. In addition, the instrument will enable students to be trained in state-of-the-art protein purification and analysis techniques.