Omics Core Facility

Given the uniqueness of the genetic component of the population of Kuwait, special attention has been given to establishing a state-of-the-art facility that can decode the Kuwaiti Genome. This platform provides research technologies and instrumentation for high-throughput genomics, epigenomics and transcriptomics complemented with an extensive set of technologies to study genome structure, dynamics and function. The Genomics Core is equipped with high-throughput sequencing systems, including the Hiseq 2500, MiSeq, iSCAN System and the 3730xl genetic analyzer, as well as gene expression profiling technologies such as Real-Time PCR.

Complementing its Genomics Core, DDI is also equipped with advanced Proteomics and Metabolomics Core equipment. Equipped with state-of-the art mass spectrometry instrumentation (which include the Thermo Scientific™ Q Executive™ HF hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap and the Oribtrap Velos mass spectrometer), the Proteomics/Metabolomics Core is able to accurately identify and quantify proteins, peptides, lipids, glycans and other small molecules. In addition, untargeted proteomics/metabolomics profiling helps identify and pathway-map the proteins and metabolites present in a biological system. Given that metabolites are the end-products of processes occurring in cells, tissues, and organs, metabolomics provides a snapshot of the biological system not possible with other techniques.

Our Proteomics Core Facility is equipped with latest high-resolution mass spectrometry. The Facility’s service can be provided as a collaborative research project or as a paid service. Proteomics services include protein and peptide quantification as well as identification of unknown proteins from various biospecimens including:

• Serum
• Plasma
• Urine
• Saliva
• Animal and cell line extracted proteins

These services include:

1. Sample preparation including sample digestion in solution of in gel digestion.
2. Peptide labeling using TMT or other peptide labeling methods.
3. Protein labeling using Stable isotopes in tissue cultures (SILAC).
4. Protein identification using state of the art mass spectrometry including Thermo Q-Executive-HF hybrid quadrupole-Orbitrap mass analyzer.
5. Protein/peptide quantification using labeled or label free proteins/peptides using state of the art mass spectrometry including Thermo Q-Executive-HF hybrid quadruple-Orbitrap mass analyzer.
6. Post-translational modification identification such as phosphorylation, Acetylation, mono-Di-and Tri-methylation as well as other potential PMs
7. Bioinformatic data analysis using Proteome discoverer/Maxquant or other software based on availability.

Other custom services based on users’ need.

In addition to its proteomics services, DDI has the capabilities to perform metabolomics/ lipidomic experiments on various biospecimens including Plasma, Serum, Urine Saliva and other biofluids to identify and quantify various small molecules. DDI is equipped with high resolution LC/MS as well as GC/MS that can perform various metabolomics and lipidomic experiments. For its collaborators and fee for service customers the following services can be provided:

1. Solid phase extraction as well as liquid phase extraction biological samples preparation.
2. Targeted and Untargeted metabolic metabolite identification and quantification.
3. Targeted and Untargeted lipidomic identification and quantification.
4. Biomarker discovery and identification of unknown metabolites.
5. Assay development and quantitation of small molecules, drugs and validation of potential biomarkers.
6. Bioinformatic analysis of metabolites using various metabolites data bases.

Our Genomic Core Facility provides resources and services to support the needs for high throughput genomics using state-of-the-art genomic technology for genetic material analysis. Our Facility offers comprehensive services and support for the latest ‘omics’ experiments and bioinformatic analysis. The services are designed to provide genomic solutions encompassing genomics, transcriptomics, and epigenomics research. Wwe support a diverse research community that spans basic biomedical research and population genetics. Our Bioinformatics team offers services for standard and custom genomic analysis, data management, development of bioinformatics tools, and access to biocomputing resources. Consultation is available to guide experimental design, and to aid in identifying the appropriate technology for specific research needs. Our Core Facilities are available to researchers within DDI as well as other researcher centers and academic institutes.

Our services include:

• DNA/RNA sequencing based on high throughput sequencing technology including Illumina HiSeq4000 and including de novo sequencing.
• Whole genome or targeted resequencing.
• Complete exome sequencing.
• Whole genome transcriptome profiling including quantification and transcript isoforms and small RNAs.
• ChIP-Seq to detect transcription binding sites across the genome.
• Genotyping microarray analysis using the llumina microarray platform and metagenomic sequencing of genomes.