Research Interests
The aim of Dr. Andre Marziali's Applied Biophysics Lab is to develop new technologies for genomics and life sciences. The research group is engaged in a range of activities from engineering design of novel instruments for BC genomics groups, to development of automation for tissue microarray analysis, rapid genotyping, single molecule analysis methods using nanopores, and novel electrophoresis technologies. We collaborate with GenomeBC groups, the BC Cancer Agency Genome Sciences Centre, Stanford University, the University of Waterloo, the University of New Orleans, and University of California Santa Cruz.
Recent emphasis in the group has been on development of a self-assembling nanosensor composed of an organic nanopore and a DNA/protein probe that is electrophoretically inserted into the pore. We have demonstrated the ability to detect and identify single DNA molecules across a lipid bilayer using this sensor, and have shown that DNA molecules differing by a single nucleotide can be distinguished.
We have also recently developed a novel method of extracting and concentrating DNA from difficult and dilute samples using a new form of non-linear electrophoresis. See research page for more information. |
