Multi-user equipment for multiparametric analysis in cell models with potential use in the identification of therapeutic targets and of toxicants

Abstract

This proposal is aimed at the acquisition of a cell analyzer capable of performing multiparametric analysis in large-scale cell models, in real time, in fixed material and in vivo. The system requested can analyze a large volume of data and is therefore categorized as a high-content analysis device. This proposal will further studies that assess real-time host-fungus interaction, determining various parameters: the activation of different signaling pathways, cellular localization of proteins and functional studies; prospecting and identification of molecules with therapeutic potential and the effects of different toxicants; the evaluation of the biocompatibility of different materials; basic studies of cellular transcription and tumor markers; risk assessment of compounds proven to have toxic or genotoxic effects; and toxicity tests in cell models to assess the dose-response relationship. The analyses can be performed in real time with high quality images, and multiple markers can be analyzed simultaneously in a single sample, providing accuracy and speed in obtaining multiple cell parameters. The interpretation of data is facilitated by a software package containing multifunctional tools that can be used on a network shared between centralized multi-user laboratories and their associates, qualifying as one of the UNESP MultiUser Facilities. The Finep Infrastructure Project provided the funding for the construction of this center, as well as for part of equipment, including a system of maldi-tof-tof mass spectrometry. This acquisition is essential to improving the research environment and to fostering studies in various fields of application related to this proposal, as well as to supplying the analytical sciences center on the Araraquara campus, and will extend and integrate the research capacity of UNESP (at the intersector level and across campuses) and of other universities. In addition, this will lead to integration among areas and specialties, promoting transdisciplinarity. (AU)