The Sanford Burnham Prebys Cancer Metabolism Core provides a unique service for the analysis of metabolism, offering both metabolite quantification and stable-isotope tracing methodology, centered around gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We offer GC-MS analysis of polar metabolites (TCA cycle, glycolysis metabolites and amino acids), short chain fatty acids, fatty acids and cholesterol, sugars and sugar-phosphates. As well as cells, we can also analyze tissues, tumors, serum or culture medium as necessary. We also have available a YSI 2950 analyzer for measurement of glucose, lactate and glutamine in medium samples. We collaborate closely with Core users and can provide in-depth advice on the direction of metabolic experiments, as well as the interpretation of results.

The Sanford-Burnham Proteomics Facility provides state-of-the-art mass spectrometry-based proteomics services with methods tailored to the needs of scientific investigators for routine mass spectrometric analysis of peptides and proteins, identification of novel proteins, characterization of post-translational modifications, and quantitative proteomics analysis of simple to complex biological samples. The facility identifies, validates and develops new methods designed for the characterization and identification of biologically important proteins. It also supports users with software applications and development, data analysis and experimental design of proteomics studies. The facility is continuously expanding its capabilities in large-scale differential proteomics analysis and phosphoproteomics for unbiased discovery of potential biomarkers and mapping protein profiles. We provide proteomics services to Sanford-Burnham scientists as well as outside non-profit and for-profits organization on a fee-for-service basis.

SBMRI Proteomics Facility provides state-of-the-art mass spectrometry (MS)-based proteomic services for analysis of peptides, synthetic compounds, carbohydrates and proteins by facilitating protein identification, the qualitative and quantitative characterization of post-translational modifications, plus quantitative and differential proteomic profiling of low-complex biological samples. Facility staff regularly identifies, validates, develops, and implements new methodologies for identification, quantification and characterization of biologically important proteins. Such approaches can support a mechanistic understanding of cancer and other life threatening diseases, as well as identify new therapeutic targets and diagnostic biomarkers.
The Proteomics Facility also supports users with grant write-up, proteomics software applications, data analysis, and experimental design of proteomic studies. The facility is continuously expanding its capabilities in large-scale differential proteomics analysis and in phosphoproteomics (and other PTMs) for discovery of potential biomarkers and mapping protein profiles.

State-of-the-art imaging and analytical services:
- The facility can perform in vivo non-invasive luminescence and fluorescence imaging for xenograft tumor growth and metastasis studies.

- Analytical equipment supports complete blood cell counts (CBC) and analysis of serum components revealing metabolic or organ stress from small samples of mouse blood.

The animal facility provides housing for specific pathogen free (SPF) rodents, frogs and Zebrafish. Trained animal care technicians provide expertise in animal husbandry, transgenic and knockout mouse breeding colony maintenance and assistance with routine technical procedures.

Our animal research program is accredited by AAALAC International (the Association for Assessment and Accreditation of Laboratory Animal Care International. Participating in the AAALAC accreditation program and meeting their rigorous standards demonstrates our commitment to humane and responsible animal research and our dedication to good science

Variety of protein production services including cloning, expression optimization, development of protein purification protocols, and protein preparation. E. coli, insect (SF9, baculovirus) and mammalian (293) systems are available for protein expression. Our analytical services are focused on biophysical characterization of structural and functional properties of proteins in solution, under native, non-denaturing conditions. We can perform quality control of protein samples (folding, stability, aggregation, etc.); characterize protein conformation and shape in solution; and measure protein binding to proteins, peptides, small molecules and other ligands (including determination of equilibrium (Kd) and kinetic rate (kon, koff) constants, stoichiometry, binding enthalpy and entropy).

The Stem Cell Core Facility (SCCF) at the Burnham Institute provides scientist’s within the Sanford Stem Cell Consortium an area to conduct their research that is devoted entirely to Human stem cells and that is conducive to collaborative partnerships.
The SSCF also provides researchers with a source of both approved and non-approved embryonic stem cell lines, induced pluripotent stem cell’s, cell-line profiling services, reagents, and instruction for all areas regarding the maintenance, differentiation and manipulation of stem cells. The SCCF has also just completed a CIRM funded renovation and expansion that allows us to increase greatly the products and services that we can offer the members of the Consortium.

The facility provides microarray-based global analysis of gene expression in human, mice and rats using an Illumina platform. Starting with investigator RNA samples, the facility confirms RNA quality, and then performs microarray analysis as well as initial data analysis. Array data are returned to the investigator, and if desired, also passed on to the Informatics and Data Management facility for more detailed analysis. Both mRNA and miRNA profiling are available. Quantitative real-time PCR (Q-PCR) service is predominantly SYBR green-based analysis, but hybridization probe (e.g. TaqMan) approaches are supported. Starting with RNA, the facility will utilize primers from investigators, or design custom primers and perform Q-PCR. The facility provides control primers and assists with experimental design, as well as providing basic relative quantitation analysis. Q-PCR analysis in the facility can also provide gene, RNA, or viral copy number data.

The Histopathology Core Facility provides standard and customized research specific histology services including tissue processing, fixed and frozen sectioning. The Facility also offers routine and special histological stains as well as immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. The Facility maintains and provides training for several pieces of common use equipment, such as, paraffin microtome, cryostat, and a cytospin. Training is also provided for basic histological techniques such as, perfusion and tissue collection. Finished slides are returned to the researcher for evaluation, or they may be scanned in our Aperio Scanscopes that allows digitizing of slides for archiving, and electronic distribution/remote analysis of histology slides, and offer, powerful image analysis tools. Scanning of fluorescent slides is also available.

The Cell Imaging Facility broadly supports research programs by providing access to sophisticated microscopes for digital imaging, as well as training, assistance and guidance, helping scientists from any institution on a “first come-first served” basis.

It offers expertise, training and assistance in advanced biological microscopic imaging techniques and use of complex image processing software, use of well-maintained, aligned, and calibrated microscopic equipment, and troubleshooting of equipment and experimental problems.