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Biological Assays

These 2 types of Biological Assays are the primary services offered to outside users:

1.  Enzyme ELISA

Listed below are examples of Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) performed in the core.  Assays may be validated for multiple species with commercial kits.  Some kits are specific to human use only when noted.

  • Cortisol Human Saliva
  • Alpha Amylase Human Saliva
  • DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) Human Saliva
  • BDNF (Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor)
  • Alanin Transaminase Assay (ALT)
  • Insulin
  • Tissue Glycogen
  • NGF (Nerve Growth Factor)

2.  PROTEIN assays

Listed below are Protein Assays performed in the core.

  • Bradford
  • Lowery

 

These assays are performed with commercial kits and may require validation depending on the species sample.

Samples such as serum, plasma, blood, urine, tissue extracts as well as preparation method for analysis is determined by kit.

It is suggested to contact the Core Supervisor prior to sample collection if you do not know what kit or assay method you will be using to ensure proper collection of the sample.

Cost is comprised of the following factors:

  • Number of samples, sample preparation, analysis and supplies.
  • All assays are performed with their own standard curve and controls for reliability and precision.
  • Determinations are performed on a “sample charge” basis in which only the cost of the assay of your samples are charged.
  • If a new assay must be validated, the investigator will pay the reagent and technical costs
  • If samples need to be re-run due to low or high concentrations not detected on curve will incur additional charge
  • Reagents and basic supply costs are charged based on number of sample.
  • Reagents cost are based on an optimal estimate of kit usage. All commercial kits are designed to run a specific number of samples. For an accurate quote on cost per sample for your study please contact mkarom@gsu.edu
  •  Shipping costs for reagents and kits usually range between $50-$200 per order depending on the number of shipments, kits and the type of reagents (e.g. radioactivity) shipped.

3. Saturation Assays with Membrane Preparation

LIGAND BINDING AND GTPgamma BINDING Assays using Tritium (H3) and Sulfur 35 (S35) has been performed in the lab.  The Ligand Binding assay was used to determine Kd (affinity) and Bmax for the (Mu Opoid Receptor) in rat brain membrane.  The procedure used 13 ml Polypropylene tubes for incubation followed using a 12 well manifold  on filtration paper transferred to a scintillation vial with scintillation fluid for quantification in the Tri-Carb Scintillation counter.   The GTP gamma assay was performed similarly.  Further information please contact the Core.  

4. Autoradiography Receptor Assays on Tissue Sections

Performed with any radiolabeled ligand listed under radiation license.  Assay is performed on slides with mounted tissue, either phosoimage or xray film detection.