Center of Biomedical Research Excellence in Acute Care Research and Rural Disparities - Equipment

Project Summary/Abstract. The COBRE in Acute Care Research & Rural Disparities at Maine Medical Center, led by Dr. Douglas Sawyer, is focused on mentoring acute care researchers, enhancing research infrastructure, and making a positive impact on communities statewide. In its current Phase I, the program supports four project leaders in critical

areas such as post-resuscitation care, prophylactic antibiotics, molecular signaling studies, and telemedicine for newborns. A significant part of this initiative involves the Flow Cytometry Core Facility at MaineHealth Institute for Research, which houses our MACSQuant Analyzer-10 cytometer. With the system reaching the

end of its service life and facing increased usage, there is a crucial need to upgrade to the next generation MACSQuant Analyzer-16. This advanced instrument offers six additional fluorescent channels, facilitating simultaneous analysis of more extensive marker panels, which is vital for our researchers studying

stem/progenitor cells and immune cells. The instrument's enhanced capabilities align with the goals of the COBRE and MaineHealth Institute for Research, supporting ongoing projects and expanding research possibilities, including those led by COBRE project leaders. After a substantial $88,192 discount due to the

trade-in of the existing MACSQuant Analyzer-10, the total requested funds amount to $151,328. The institutional support provided, including salaries, supply costs, and future service contracts, underscores the vital role of the Flow Cytometry Core Facility in the success of the overall program. This investment is justified

by the critical role the Flow Cytometry Core plays in numerous impactful research projects, and the new MACSQuant Analyzer-16 is expected to elevate the capabilities of the core facility, contributing significantly to advancing scientific discoveries and supporting the goals of the parent grant.