Functional Genomics & Proteomics Facility Core (FGP-FC)
FGP-FC Director of Proteomics: Jing Zhang, M.D., Ph.D.
zhangj@u.washington.edu
206-897-5245
Co-Director, Genomics: John Stamatoyannopoulos
Lab Manager: Fred Farin
Manager, OMICs Integration: Theo Bammler
The Functional Genomics & Proteomics Core (FGP-FC) plays a crucial role in supporting the Center’s mission to identify the interactions between genetic, epigenetic and environmental factors that contribute to major chronic diseases. The FGP-FC does this by providing state-of-the-art genomics and proteomics technologies to investigate gene-environment interactions in the context of environmental health sciences research and population-based studies. The goals of the core are to:
- Maintain state-of-the-art genomics and proteomics-based instrumentation and technologies that support EHS and ecogenetics research.
- Provide Center investigators with cost effective, priority access to genomics and proteomics state-of- the-art technologies and consultation services to ensure the full potential of these resources is realized.
- Develop new laboratory protocols to support EHS and ecogenetics research using genomics and proteomics-based technologies.
- Educate Center investigators about the potential of new and emerging technologies for genomics and proteomics-based EHS research.
- In partnership with the OMICs Integration component of the Integrative EHS Facility Core (IEHSFC), provide leadership in facilitating publications as well as the innovative integration of genomics, proteomics, and metabolomics approaches in EHS and ecogenetics research.
To address the mission of this Center, a laboratory infrastructure is required that can provide genotyping capabilities, generate pilot data for proposals aimed at large-scale molecular epidemiology studies, and provide services to facilitate these studies, once funded. Another important aspect of gene-environment interaction research is gene expression profiling. Similar to genotyping studies, microarray experiments are costly to undertake and validate because of the significant expense associated with hiring specialized staff and purchasing and operating equipment. In addition to genotyping and gene expression profiling, proteomics methodologies are valuable in investigating biological effects that result from environmental exposures. These genomics and proteomics technologies continue to develop rapidly and the cost associated with evaluating and implementing them in a timely fashion is considerable. Most investigators do not have the financial resources or specialized expertise required to keep up with the rapid technological advancements. However, it is critical for investigators to have access to the latest technologies in order to be competitive and to perform cutting-edge research. One of the goals of the FGP-FC is to meet this demand by providing a shared resource that allows access to state-of-the-art high-throughput genomics and proteomics analysis. Without access to the resources offered by the core, most investigators would not be able to cost-effectively incorporate these technologies into their research. However, perhaps the most important service the FGP-FC provides is the valuable consultation to Center members on how to integrate genomics and proteomics assays into their research projects. This approach maximizes the usefulness of the core’s capabilities to a large number of CEEH investigators in a cost effective manner.
For more information about this core and the services it provides, please contact the Core Director listed above.