Functional Genomics Component

The Interdisciplinary Center for Exposures, Diseases, Genomics & Environment (EDGE)

The Functional Genomics Component focuses on the biochemical and molecular mechanisms underlying human variability and disease, and fosters collaborations between a large network of investigators working in toxicology, molecular biology, genetics, and environmental epidemiology. Technical support is provided through several facility cores, one of which is the EDGE Center’s Genomics, Bioinformatics & Biostatistics, and Microphysiological (GBBM) Systems Core that also serves IDDRC affiliates through the Genetics Core. The GBBM Core is comprised of three complementary components:

1. The Genomics Component provides genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics resources (linked services).
2. The Bioinformatics & Biostatistics Component provides data analysis expertise for all types of OMICs data and beyond (direct services).
3. The Microphysiological Systems Component (MPSC) offers access to sophisticated 3D in vitro model systems that mimic the complex cellular architecture of organs. The MPSC offers a unique experimental system for validating discoveries revealed by OMICs analyses (linked services).

The GBBM’s Specific Aims align well with the IDDRC Genetics Core:

Aim 1. Provide Center investigators with cost effective and priority access to state-of-the-art genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics technologies and consultation to ensure that the full potential of these resources is realized (linked services).

Aim 2. Provide comprehensive state-of-the-art statistical and bioinformatics analysis for all types of OMICs data (e.g. genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics) and beyond in a cost effective way (direct services).

Aim 3. Provide Center investigators access to novel 3D microphysiological system (MPS) models that utilize human, canine, rodent and other mammalian cells to investigate toxicological responses for candidate xenobiotics (linked services).

Aim 4. Proactively educate Center investigators of new and emerging technologies (e.g. single-cell Next-Generation Sequencing applications; direct service) and make them available as appropriate (linked service).

Aim 5. Support the preparation of grant proposals and manuscripts (direct services).

The GBBM has wetlab and computing infrastructure to provide the aforementioned services.

Return to the Genetics Core page.