Bioinformatics and Mathematical Modelling

The following technologies are available at the CRTD: Network reconstruction (Andreas Beyer). Functional annotation of literature or proteins with terms from the gene ontology, facilitates textmining with an in-house system www.GoPubMed.org and functional annotation of high-throughput data (in particular micro-arrays and RNAi screens) including mapping to interaction networks (Michael Schroeder). In addition, high-performance computing allows in-silico analysis of data via the central super-computing facility in Dresden (Zentrum für Informationsdienste und Hochleistungsrechnen ZIH; Wolfgang Nagel), and mathematical modelling (differential equations, stochastic processes, cellular automata) of spatio-temporal pattern formation at the molecular and cellular scale (Andreas Deutsch)

Biomaterials

Several research groups focus on the development of novel materials for regenerative therapies, such as scaffolds for hard tissue and soft tissue replacements. For example: Novel biohybrid polymer gel systems and combinatorial approaches to matrix reconstitution (Carsten Werner), materials to design innovative three-dimensional culture systems (Sophie Pautot), or mineralized collagen and other artificial extracellular matrices (Michael Gelinsky).

DNA Sequencing Facility

The DNA Sequencing Facility of the CRTD partner institution MPI-CBG provides high quality DNA sequencing of individual samples as well as high-throughput application that are based on Sanger sequencing as well as professional support for projects in cooperation with MPI groups.

Genetic Engineering Technology

The groups of Konstantinos Anastassiadis and Francis Stewart offer cutting edge technology in the construction of gene replacement vectors and bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) via homologous recombination (recombineering). Constructed vectors are then transfected into mouse or human ES cells and correctly manipulated ES cell clones are then used for further investigations.  This technology allows for conditional loss of function studies and regulated overexpression in cells, mice and other animal models. Website Genome Engineering - Mouse

The Genome Engineering Fish unit (Stefan Hans) provides tailor-made modified bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) constructs using recombineering technology for the generation of stable transgenic zebrafish. Website Genome Engineering - Fish

High-Throughput Technology Development Studio (HT-TDS)

The HT-TDS of the CRTD partner institution MPI-CBG offers the opportunity to adapt laboratory assays to an automated work-flow environment, in order to screen complex biological processes such as cell division, signal transduction, endocytosis, and also regeneration.

Histology Facility

The histology facility is situated on the ground floor in the BIOTEC building and is a joint facility between the CRTD, the BIOTEC and the Klinik für Unfallchirurgie. The facility offers equipment and advice for both cryosectioning and paraffin sectioning of tissues as well as for immunohistochemical procedures and histological staining methods. In addition, the histology facility is equipped with specialised equipment for sectioning bone. Website of the Histology Facility. 

Contact: 
Thomas Kurth; Phone +49 (0)351-458-82090; thomas.kurth(at)crt-dresden.de

Technology for Cell Manipulation and Lab on a Chip Platforms

Several CRTD members provide know how and technology such as Atomic Force Microscopy, by which it is possible not only to record cell topologies, but also to mechanically stimulate or manipulate cell surface molecules at distinct positions (Jochen Guck). Know how on microfluidics, Lab-on-a-chip platforms on a soft polymer (PDMS) basis with variable geometries for various applications in the biomedical field are also developed (Petra Schwille, GeSim GmbH, Sophie Pautot).

Technology on Imaging Methods

Several CRTD groups provide access to advanced imaging technologies such as fluorescence correlation spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy (Petra Schwille, Jochen Guck). In addition, Jörg Van den Hoff at the CRTD partner institute Forschungszentrum Dresden-Rossendorf can provide in vivo imaging expertise (human PET, small animal PET, MRI/MRS, CT). The Helmholtz-Zentrum Forschungszentrum Dresden-Rossendorf can also provide basic tracers including GMP-produced PET radiopharmaceuticals.
Document with additional information.

Technology for Proteomics

The BIOTEC/B CUBE-Mass Spectrometry Facility is scientifically guided by Bernard Hoflack. An expert in mass spectrometry, proteomics and protein chemistry. Technical assistance and service provides Biologist Steffi Lenhard. Website of the Mass Spectrometry Facility.

Transgenic Core Facility (TCF)

The Transgenic Core Facility of the CRTD partner institution MPI-CBG performs blastocyst injection of ES cells and pronuclei injection of transgenes in order to generate genetically modified mouse strains, which can be used for basic research or as animal models for certain diseases.