This platform is dedicated to the development of bioinformatics and biostatistics pipelines for solving complex problems arising from large-scale data. These pipelines and algorithms (Python, C, R, shell script) are applied in the analysis of Omics sciences, mainly Transcriptomics and Proteomics, aiming to advance the understanding of poorly explored or unknown cellular processes in the context of immuno-inflammation.

Chemoproteomics Platform

This methodology combines affinity chromatography, protein crosslinking, and mass spectrometry–based proteomics to identify molecular targets for novel drug development.

The Leica TSC SP8 DSL Hyvolution Confocal Microscope is a comprehensive system offering multiple capabilities. In addition to being a confocal microscope with four laser lines (405, 488, 552, and 638 nm), it features a super-resolution system and a new technology called Lightsheet/DSL. The Hyvolution module enables increased lateral resolution, reaching up to 140 nm, allowing samples to be visualized in greater detail, particularly small structures, while the DSL technology allows imaging of larger samples.

High-Content Screening (HCS) is a fluorescence and confocal microscopy system that enables molecule screening and multiparametric analysis of cell cultures in microplates of up to 1,536 wells. The system can automatically acquire hundreds of thousands of high-resolution images of both fixed and live cells. It allows monitoring of dynamic cellular processes, as it features adjustable temperature, CO₂, and humidity control. Image acquisition and analysis are performed in a customized manner using the MetaXpress software.

The mass spectrometry equipment at CENTD (nanoLC-EASY1200 and Q Exactive Plus) is dedicated to analyzing different mass spectrometry–based proteomics strategies. The system enables efficient separation and analysis of proteins and peptides at very low concentrations, covering a wide dynamic range in complex biological samples derived from organisms, tissues, secretions, cells, or viruses.

This platform consists of a specialized area for molecular biology techniques, such as CRISPR/Cas9, RNAi, and gene overexpression, for the development of genetically modified or silenced cell lines. It also provides access to all CENTD equipment (Flow Cytometry, Mass Spectrometer, High-Content Screening, Confocal Microscope) for the functional characterization of the generated cell lines.

Imaging cytometry is a technique that combines two important tools: flow cytometry and microscopy. It allows quantification of fluorescence intensity in cells in suspension and provides images of all analyzed cells, as it is equipped with fluorescence microscopy objectives. The bead-based multiplex analysis system simultaneously quantifies multiple biomarkers using Luminex technology.