Available Services
In this section, you may browse through all services available across all National Facilities. Use the filter function to filter services by National Facility, Infrastructural Unit or category of service. In addition, you may use the text search function to search across services using key words. Please note the system will search your chosen key word either in the service title or description.
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Data Acquisition
This service is dedicated to projects where specific single molecule assays have been already established or, alternatively, should be combined with ‘assay development’ service as a simple ‘package’. Examples of experiments currently performed routinely by the unit: (i) detecting changes to DNA structure upon protein binding e.g., melting, looping, compaction; (ii) characterizing protein behaviour upon binding to DNA (diffusion, direct motion, interactions with other proteins). This service can be performed by the NF staff or by a trained User. The training can be provided by the unit as part of this service. Full training typically requires 3-5 days. The User can spend up to 10 days at the NF. The work can be split into two visits. Original data will be handed to the User as .h5 files. The unit will assist the User in Accessing the files using Pylake. In case of kymographs, NF staff can provide a short training on existing tools such as Lakeview.
Assay Development
This service enables researchers to explore the potential of single-molecule techniques and develop new protocols and workflows. Prior experience with dynamic single-molecule (DSM) approaches is not required.
The unit is equipped with two state-of-the-art instruments:
- C-Trap ‘Dymo’ utilizes confocal scanning and is primarily used for imaging in solution.
- C-Trap ‘Edge’ offers the flexibility to switch between wide-field fluorescence and TIRF imaging. Additionally, it allows label-free imaging via IRM, making it ideal for studies close to the surface.
The unit provides support for a wide range of experimental approaches.
This service will only be performed by NF staff, ideally accompanied by the User. As part of this service, the NF staff will check sample quality, troubleshoot, and define optimal conditions for data acquisition. If possible, an automation protocol for the experiment can be developed to streamline future data collection. The User can spend up to 10 days in the NF, testing various samples. The work can be split into two visits. The outcome of this service is an established protocol that can be used for ‘data acquisition’ service.