Project Summary-Biochemistry Core The OVERALL aims of this Vision Research Core (VRC) are to provide: · access to resources outside the scope of individual R01 awards · access to technical expertise outside the scope a single laboratory · staff training to remove barriers to efficient translational research and collaboration · collaboration initiatives among VRC labs The research areas supported by the VRC span the analysis and treatments of retinal degenerations, developmental disorders, glaucoma and other disorders, as well as and a range of cutting-edge basic science initiatives. We have implemented four resource modules that continue the natural evolution of how this research group works together, serving 17 investigators holding 22 NEI R01 awards. The Biochemistry Module evolved from an oligonucleotide synthesis and gene sequencing service towards a true proteomics (ultracentrifugation, gel quantitation, immunoblotting) and metabolomics resource (specialized GC-MS, HPLC-MS, surface plasmon resonance) that accurately reflects our current research strengths. Specifically, the Biochemistry Module provides: · Ultracentrifugation based on a workhorse Beckman-Coulter XL-90 · IR imaging and quantitation of immunoblots and hybridization blots · Quantitative Western blotting · X-ray film developing for ECL and radioactivity detection · Neonatal in vivo electroporation of DNA expression constructs into cells · HPLC-MS and GC-MS of small molecules (retinoids, carotenoids, lipofuscin components, fatty acids, cholesterol, flavonoids) · Protein/ligand interaction quantitation with SPR biosensor technologies · Training and comprehensive data archiving.