Biochemistry and Molecular Biology Laboratory (BMBL)

Director: Dr. Chida Ramanathan

Biochemical and Molecular Biology Laboratory (BMBL) is approximately 1500 square feet and contains equipment used for the following major research areas:

• Immunonutrition and Metabolism
• Organismal and Cellular Bioenergetic
• Muscle Physiology
• Chrononutrition

The overall mission of this research unit is to study how nutrients/dietary protocols/exercise regulate physiological processes in healthy and diseased states. The laboratory techniques used for this research range from analysis and manipulation of DNA, RNA and/or proteins using molecular biology (PCR, qPCR, cloning, RNAi, and CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing) and biochemical assays (ChIP, ChIP-PCR, Western blot, ELISAs). State-of-the-art imaging technology (fluorescence and bioluminescence) is available for live-cell imaging or standard microscopy. Flow cytometry to identify immune populations and study immune responses, and  Seahorse XF analyzer and Oroboros high-resolution respirometers to study cellular metabolism and mitochondrial function are available. The research unit is fully equipped with standard equipment, including fridges, freezers (-20 °C and -80°C), tissue culture hoods, incubators, pH meters, water baths, and shakers.