Biology Laboratory

The Biology Laboratory at CINN supports the integration of biological techniques across various research disciplines. We are equiped to store, process, and analyse biological samples in-house, which enables us to quantify hormones, neurotransmitters, and enzymes.

Sample storage and processing

A -80°C New Brunswick Eppendorf freezer is dedicated to the storage of biological samples, including blood, saliva, and urine (which can be collected in our dedicated particant/patient-facing suite). Our bench-top Medifuge Centrifuge and Pico 17 Microcentrifuge are designed to separate biological sample components based on their densities, often used to make samples acellular (e.g., separating red blood cells from plasma). The laboratory is also equipped with single-channel mechanical pipettes for measuring liquids ranging from 0.1μl to 1000μl, an Eppendorf Xplorer 8-channel pipette for multichannel pipetting, and an Eppendorf E3 Multipette for multistep pipetting.

Chemical analysis

CINN is equipped to analyze the composition of biological samples using Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA) techniques. With a Multiskan SkyHigh Microplate Spectrophotometer, we utilize ultraviolet and visible light projections to measure DNA, RNA, proteins, hormones, and neurotransmitters. In addition to sample processing equipment, including a Wellwash microplate washer and a digital vortex mixer, we can efficiently complete a wide range of ELISA protocols. Our MICROVAP microplate evaporator and Elmasonic ultrasonic shaker are also used to prepare samples for other chemical analysis techniques, such as mass spectrometry.