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

The strategic research plan for Carleton University includes an enhanced focus on biomedical and biosciences research.  In keeping with this plan, the chemistry department has actively sought out researchers with interests at the interface of chemistry, biology, and medicine.  This is evidenced by the recent hires in the chemistry department in biophysical (Dr. Anatoli Ianoul) and bioinorganic (Dr. Maria DeRosa) chemistry.  This proposal is for the development of a core biochemistry facility to support these and other interdisciplinary research groups in the chemistry department at Carleton University.        Dr. Ianoul's research program is interested in developing a better understanding of antimicrobial peptides, considered to be potential alternatives to synthetic antibiotics.  Dr. DeRosa's research is focused on gaining a better insight into the unique properties of nucleic acid aptamers, to facilitate the use of these biological entities in biosensors and medical diagnostics.  Both these research programs have the potential to dramatically impact the health and well-being of Canadians.  In order to effectively pursue these areas of study, several key pieces of standard biochemistry equipment are urgently needed.  The equipment requested here includes: 1) a laboratory water purification system for providing DNase and RNase-free deionized water for biochemistry assays and experiments 2) an ultra-low temperature freezer (-86°C) for long-term storage of biological samples 3) an autoclave system for sterilization of equipment and liquid media, buffers, etc. 4) a shaking incubator for bacterial culture and 5) a biological safety cabinet for manipulations of bacteria for cloning and antimicrobial experiments.  A delay in the purchase of this equipment will restrict the ability of the DeRosa and Ianoul labs to perform the critical biochemistry experiments that will contribute to the timely impact of their research.  An investment in these basic pieces of equipment will enable the Ianoul and DeRosa laboratories to pursue their research endeavours at the boundary between chemistry, biology, and medicine, and will encourage the growth of interdisciplinary research and training in the chemistry department at Carleton University.