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In the era of genomics-driven biology, one must be able to study not only the sequences of genes, but the structures and functions of the molecules they encode, both the proteins and functional RNAs. Characterizing the structure and dynamics of these molecules is crucial to understanding the basis of nearly every cellular function. The purpose of this facility is to provide unimpeded access to state-of-the-art and well maintained biophysics equipment, integral to the research community at the University of Chicago. The equipment allows measurement of thermodynamic properties including stability using CD spectrometry, and binding constants using analytical ultra-centrifugation, and ITC calorimetry. Secondary structure content can be studied by CD spectrometry which also can monitor conformational transitions. Over-all size and shape can be determined from rotational correlation times measured using light scattering or time-resolved fluorescence anisotropy. The majority of the equipment was graciously donated by Molecular Oncology. The space was donated by the Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. Upgrades and operation costs are funded by a grant from The Howard Hughes Medical Institute and The Biological Sciences Department.
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