Cellular and Molecular Core

Collage photo showing the assorted technological machinery provided to MBI members through the cellular/molecular core

The MBI Cellular and Molecular Core provides researchers with advanced tools and expert guidance for single-cell, spatial and molecular biology workflows, spanning from sample preparation to data generation. Designed to support both emerging and experienced MBI investigators, the Core offers infrastructure to explore complex cellular and molecular mechanisms with precision and reproducibility.

Equipped with state-of-the-art 10x Genomics platforms for single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, the Core enables researchers to map cellular heterogeneity and tissue architecture at high resolution. Complementary instrumentation for nucleic acid analysis, imaging, protein quantification and sample preparation further supports a comprehensive range of molecular applications, empowering scientists to generate robust, high-quality data for impactful discoveries.

The core hub is located in L2-171 with some shared equipment and spaces available in other locations throughout the MBI.

Accessing the Core

The MBI Cellular and Molecular Core is available exclusively to MBI members. If you aren’t a member, you can become one here.

New users are encouraged to meet with our Core Directors before initiating single-cell or spatial workflows to ensure proper experimental setup and training.

Core Capabilities

Single-Cell and Spatial Transcriptomics

Capture cellular heterogeneity and tissue architecture with high resolution.

  • 10X Genomics Chromium X Series – High-throughput single-cell RNA sequencing
  • 10X Genomics Visium CytAssist – Spatial gene expression mapping
  • ACD Hybridization Ovens – For RNAscope and in situ hybridization
Molecular Biology and Gene Expression

Support for molecular cloning, transfection, and quantitative gene expression.

  • Agilent TapeStation, NanoDrop, Qubit, Countess 3 FL – RNA/DNA quantification and integrity checks
  • VeritiPro Thermal Cycler and QuantStudio 3 qPCR System – Nucleic acid amplification and quantification
  • Lonza 4D-Nucleofector – High-efficiency nucleic acid transfection
Protein, Imaging and Histology

Reliable imaging and quantification tools for protein and tissue research.

  • Bio-Rad ChemiDoc MP and Li-Cor Odyssey FC – Multiplexed fluorescence and chemiluminescence imaging
  • Leica CM1860 Cryostat – Precise tissue sectioning for histology
  • MSD Platform and Microplate Reader – Protein expression and immunoassay analysis

Equipment Directory

DESCRIPTION MANUFACTURER MODEL
Centrifuge 5810R eppendorf Centrifuge 5810R
Legend Micro 21R (MicroCentrifuge-Refrigerated) Thermofisher Legend Micro 21R
VeritiPro 96-Well Thermal Cycler Thermofisher VeritiPro 96-Well Thermal Cycler
QuantStudio 3 Thermofisher QuantStudio 3
Nanodrop OneC Thermofisher Nanodrop OneC
Li-Cor Li-Cor Odyssey FC
Solaris 2000I (Orbital Shaker) Thermofisher Solaris 2000I
MESO QuickPlex SQ 120 MSD QuickPlex SQ 120
gentleMACS Octo Dissociator MACS Miltenyi Biotec gentleMACS Octo Dissociator
TapeStation Agilent Technologies TapeStation

All equipment in the table above is available in L2-171; however, MBI members also have access to shared equipment and spaces throughout the MBI.

Additional Shared Equipment

Equipment/Facility Room(s)
Darkrooms & X-ray Developer L4-155
Speedvac Rotary Evaporator L4-155
Autoclaves L1-137, L2-137, L3-137, L4-137
Perfusion Rooms L1-139, L2-139, L4-139
Cold Rooms L1-141, L2-141, L3-141, L4-141
Ice Machines Lab Use Only LG-135, L1-130, L2-130, L3-130, L4-130
Beckman LE-80K Ultracentrifuges L2-158
Beckman J2-HS Centrifuge L2-158
Sanyo Harrier 18/80 Refrigerated Centrifuge L2-158

Contact Us

The Cellular and Molecular Core is a collaborative resource. Our experienced faculty provides consultation and ongoing support, guiding investigators from experimental design through data generation. The combination of cutting-edge instrumentation and expert guidance empowers researchers at all levels of experience to generate robust, high-quality data for impactful discoveries.

Eduardo Candelario-Jalil
Department: Department of Neuroscience

Eduardo Candelario-Jalil

Professor, Graduate Co-Coordinator Neuroscience Graduate Program
Phone: (352) 273-7116
Freddyson Martinez-Rivera
Department: Department of Neuroscience

Freddyson Martinez-Rivera

Assistant Professor
Phone: (352) 627-9200

Additional Shared Equipment Manager

For questions regarding the additional shared equipment, please contact Dr. Ashok Kumar.

Ashok Kumar
Department: Department of Neuroscience

Ashok Kumar

Research Associate Professor
Phone: (352) 392-4085

Acknowledgment

Please include the following in your publications:
“Experiments were performed with support from the Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute, University of Florida.”

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