The Core Facility Functional Genomics supports and performs high-throughput image-based experiments combined with RNAi and provides technical expertise and support in high-content analysis microscopy for the quantitative analysis of cellular phenotypes. We also support and perform genome wide pooled screens with our libraries (gRNAs or shRNAs) and assist until hit validation by generating KO/KI cell line(s) for the genes of interest.

Tasks routinely performed by the facility:

Assay Development & Optimization, User training

• design & optimization of cell-based assays
• optimization of siRNA transfection
• high-content analysis (HCA) assay development and optimization
• assay adaptation to multi-well-plate format
• work-flow automation
• statistical analysis
• user introduction and training
• organizing workshops

Screening

• high-throughput high-content RNAi screening
• data analysis
• hit-picking

Resources and equipment

• RNAi libraries (sgRNA, shRNA, siRNA)
• automated high throughput epifluorescence microscope: Thermo Arrayscan VTI
• automated high throughput spinning disk confocal microscope: MD ImageXPress Micro Confocal
• liquid handling workstation: Tecan Evo Freedom
• Cell dispensing device: Biotek CellDispenser
• Electroporation device: Amaxa 4D-Nucleofector (X and Y units)
• IT infrastructure for storage & analysis of large datasets in collaboration with SG-IT and CF LSC