Protein Production and Characterization Core

Project Summary (Protein Production and Characterization Core) The Protein Production and Characterization Core (PPCC) serves as research support for the Oklahoma COBRE in Structural Biology (OCSB) and the greater life science research community. It is a state-of-the-art facility for the expression, purification, and biophysical characterization of proteins for researchers. The PPCC produces high quality proteins in a reliable and efficient manner on a fee-for-service basis and provides hands-on training and expert advice in all aspects of protein expression, purification, and characterization available in the facility. The PPCC staff consists of the Core Director Dr. Philip Bourne and a Graduate Student Assistant. The PPCC is guided by an advisory committee comprised of three faculty users. The PPCC works closely with investigators and the OCSB-supported Biomolecular Structure Core (BSC) to produce homogeneous, highly purified protein for crystallization trials and other life science research needs. The facility is equipped with instrumentation frequently not found within individual research laboratories due to their cost and maintenance. Recently, instrumentation for the biophysical characterization of macromolecules was added to the facility and fostered the expansion of services and resulting increase in the user base. During the proposed Phase 3 of the OCSB, the PPCC will work with the BSC, the OU Mass Spectrometry, Proteomics & Metabolomics Core, and the cryo-EM component of the OU Samuel Roberts Noble Microscopy Laboratory to support researchers in their protein needs for structural biology methodologies. Being a dynamic resource for the life science community will continue to grow the user base and, together with the support of the University, provide for the long-term sustainability of this core facility.