SDRC - Phenotype Core

Given the remarkable advances in our ability to manipulate the genetic and biochemical behavior of cells and organisms, the previous animal and tissue culture cores have been fused into a Phenotype Core that will assist Skin Diseases Research Core (SDRC) Center and skin-oriented investigators in the analysis of cell and tissue phenotypes. Much of the technology will facilitate the determination of the role of inflammatory mediators and matrix remodeling in skin injury and repair. Cell culture facilities are largely dedicated to the propagation of well-characterized skin cell strains: keratinocytes, melanocytes, fibroblasts and vascular endothelial cells. Analytical procedures include routine ELISA and proliferation assays, a novel, high throughput cell migration assay, collagen lattice contraction, and in vitro models of angiogenesis. Whole animal based studies concentrate on the repair process and animal models thereof. In addition to conventional assessment of incisional and excisional wounds in a number of species, the Phenotype Core offers investigators a wide variety of humane models for the investigation of matrix formation, angiogenesis, gene therapy and impaired healing. Comprehensive analysis of transgenic animals under the stresses induced by wound repair is often a key tool in determining genotype-phenotype correlations, and the laboratory is fully equipped to determine, in coordination with the other Cores, alterations in wound biomechanics, granulation tissue formation, epithelialization, angiogenesis and matrix accumulation. The analyses emphasize the quantitative aspects of cutaneous wound repair.

Contact: Jeff Davidson, Ph.D.—Director
Phone: 615-327-4751 #5488
Email: jeff.davidson@vanderbilt.edu
Website: medicine.mc.vanderbilt.edu