CNPEM’s Brazilian Biosciences National Laboratory will accept research proposals for its Biomolecule Synthesis Facility (LSB) from external academics from August 15th 2024 to September 30th 2024.
The LSB is equipped with modern equipment for automated solid-phase biomolecule chemical synthesis. Its primary focus is on synthesizing DNA and RNA peptides and oligonucleotides, such as primers, probes and aptamers, with or without labeling or modifications. By supplying high-quality biomolecules, the LSB provides essential inputs to various scientific areas and thus optimizes the use of resources, providing speed and feasibility for the execution of challenging projects.
This initial call for proposals will exclusively focus on the synthesis of DNA oligonucleotides. To facilitate production, sequences with the following characteristics must be requested:
- Number of DNA sequences per proposal: up to 20
- Sequence length: up to 80 bases
- Synthesis scale: 25, 50 or 100 nmol
- Number of labelings per proposal: 2
- 5′ labeling: Phosphorylation and FAM
- 3′ labeling: Amino, Biotin, Phosphorylation, BHQ1 and BHQ2
- Internal modification: Inosine, Uridine and Phosphorothioate
- Biomolecule purification method: Cartridge and RP-HPLC
In addition to biomolecule synthesis, users will have access to a highly qualified team offering theoretical support for the selected proposals. This support includes:
- Sequence analysis
- Selection of modifications
- Evaluation of fluorophore compatibility
- Selection of the type of biomolecule purification
- Handling and storage
- Post-synthesis
The primary goal of providing access to this research infrastructure, combined with the well-known LNBio team’s expertise, is to enhance the research and development capabilities of academic institutions that rely on these strategic inputs to advance their research.
Proposals must be submitted exclusively through the online SAU system. An internal committee will select proposals based on the alignment of the research with CNPEM’s mission, the technical feasibility, the originality of the project and the scientific merit.
It should be noted that priority will be given to research proposals from the North, Northeast and Central-West regions. The aim is to allocate at least 60% of approved projects to researchers affiliated with teaching and research institutions in these areas. Achieving this goal reveals the purpose of expanding the geographic scope of the incentive for research efforts in this field, but it will be intrinsically linked to demand from these regions and to the technical feasibility criteria of the proposals.
Important dates
- Start of submission: August 15th 2024
- End of submission: September 30th 2024
- Announcement of selected proposals: November 29th 2024
- Execution period: December 2024 to March 2025
