SunBMT is actively employing state-of-the-art systems biology techniques (genomics, proteomics and advanced data mining algorithms) for discovery of peripheral blood host signatures (biomarkers) of human immune/inflammatory responses that identify the specific infections, inflammations and diseases that elicit those responses and can be used to forecast disease occurrence before clinical symptoms and to monitor effectiveness of treatment. Our Service Center capitalizes on our molecular and cellular biology expertise to provide contract sample analysis and data mining support for medicine and biotechnology research efforts.
Through CRADAs with physicists and mathematicians at the Sensor & Signal Processing Division of the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD), we have developed proprietary machine learning algorithms that can be used to data-mine our proteomics and genomics database for specific features for disease prediction. In addition to biomarker discovery projects, SunBMT is also developing antibiotics that can be used to treat various drug-resistant bacteria such as methicillin-resistant and vancomycin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus. One of the antibiotics being developed is a lantibiotic that is effective against gram-positive bacteria, and demonstrated its utility for the detection, inactivation and decontamination of Bacillus spores.
Recombinant DNA Technology and Genomic Analysis
SunBMT has proven expertise in all aspects of recombinant DNA technologies (e.g. RNA and DNA isolation, analysis and quantitation, polymerase chain reaction amplification and quantitation, etc) and its scientists have published numerous articles in peer-reviewed journals. SunBMT also has extensive experience in the use of high density DNA microarrays for expression profiling of human samples to provide a tissue or disease “fingerprint” which can be used to identify and characterize novel genes involved in disease states, and to study functions of genes in biologic pathways. We have established an infectious disease database of predictor genes to forecast a number of infectious diseases with high accuracy and are establishing data bases related to other inflammatory processes, including atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
Proteomic Analysis
SunBMT has an AutoFlex III Smartbeam Matrix Assisted Laser Desorption Ionization (MALDI)-Time-of Flight (TOF)/TOF and a Surface Enhanced Laser Desorption Ionization (SELDI)-TOF Mass Spectrometer (MS) for analysis of intact proteins (top-down proteomics). A microfluidic-based high performance liquid chromatography system (HPLC-Chip Cube) coupled to an Agilent Technologies Electrospray Ionization (ESI) TOF-MS is used for the analysis of digested peptides (bottom-up proteomics). Using these proteomics platforms, we can comprehensively evaluate the proteome in various biological fluids.
Cell Culture
SunBMT has a DoD-certified, level 2 biosafety tissue culture facility. Our scientists are experienced in various aspects of cell culture, and can provide practical and technical support in the area.
Analytical and Testing Services
Our capabilities in this area include genomic and proteomic analysis of biological samples, performance testing and evaluation of various clinical assay systems and diagnostic kits, RNA, DNA and protein isolation and purification, as well as general biological laboratory support. SunBMT offers a variety of microbial biocide and sporocidal tests for assessing the efficacy of chemical disinfectants and other non-chemical sterilants.
Consultations and Project Management
With a strong background in the various areas of biomedical sciences, SunBMT offers a strong multi-disciplinary resource of practical support and technical advice in molecular and cellular biology, genomics and proteomics, medical and biomedical sciences, bioinformatics and data analysis. Collectively, the four principal scientists at SunBMT have more than 80 years of practical research experience and expertise in managing and executing research.
Education and Training
SunBMT can provide instructor-led training, personalized instruction and educational programs. SunBMT’s training expertise is based on many years of experience working in the academic arena. Our professional staff can design, develop, and implement training programs specific to customer needs, as well as assist with the creation and assessment of technical publications including manuals, curricula, scientific reports and guides.
