Core E: Chemistry and Analytical Core (CAC)

ABSTRACT: CHEMISTRY AND ANALYICAL CORE The Chemistry and Analytical Core (CAC) is a critical research support core for the UNC-SRP, providing expertise and analytical capabilities to measure toxic substances with prioritization of inorganic arsenic (iAs) and co-occurring contaminants and characterize their effects on metabolic dysfunction/diabetes. The CAC offers analytical expertise and services, access to state-of-the-art instrumentation for metals measurements, microbiome and metabolomics analysis, and training in cutting-edge research methodologies. The CAC provides Projects 1-4 with the tools and expertise needed to generate critical data sets that will help to identify novel strategies to reduce iAs exposure and to prevent iAs-induced metabolic dysfunction. The CAC staff accomplishes tasks through utilization of an ultra-sensitive Agilent 8900 triple quadrupole inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and an Agilent 7900-based hydride generation-cryotrapping-ICP-MS (HG- CT-ICP-MS) for total element and speciation analysis, and high resolution Thermo QE HF Orbitrap MS systems for metabolomics profiling and metabolite identification. In addition, the CAC has established expertise in microbiome analysis via 16S rRNA gene sequencing and shotgun metagenomics using the MiSeq and NovaSeq platforms. The overall objective of the CAC is to provide the UNC-SRP Projects with analytical infrastructure, instrumentation, service, training and related support in data interpretation. Three specific aims will be pursued, including: Aim 1. Establish and implement state-of-art analytical methodologies to enable sensitive, accurate and precise measurement of trace metals for all UNC Superfund Projects; Aim 2. Leverage analytical expertise in microbiome and metabolomics to support mechanistic studies and the development of tangible solutions to mediate iAs toxicity; and Aim 3. Provide consultation to Biomedical and Environmental Science Projects and extensive training for graduate students and postdoctoral trainees on instrumentation and data interpretation. The CAC supports the overall theme of the UNC-SRP: “Protecting vulnerable populations from arsenic-induced metabolic dysfunction with a vision for exposure reduction and disease prevention.” The CAC will provide critical research support for the UNC-SRP and serve as an integral part of the success of the research within the UNC- SRP. The CAC activities promote interactions among all Projects and Cores through expertise in metals analyses, microbiome and metabolomics analyses. With every component in place, including state-of-the-art equipment, rigorous QA/QC plans, highly experienced personnel, strong leadership team and institutional support, the CAC will play a key role in forging links among the researchers of the UNC-SRP and beyond.