Functional Genomics

The NRC-IMB functional genomics team uses advanced technologies to assist industry and health research partners with the development of products and processes to improve the health and wellness of Canadians. Functional genomics is a collection of tools and methods that enable the characterization of any of the important cellular molecules that impact health: genes and their expression, proteins and enzymes, lipids (fats) and metabolites (small molecules such as sugars, vitamins and co-enzymes). These methods depend on well equipped technology platforms, including mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance instrumentation.

Functional genomics tools are used to investigate the impact of marine bioactives on cells and organisms. They can be used to screen for novel biological activities or to clearly define the molecular changes caused by the application of a bioactive. The NRC-IMB zebrafish facility provides a novel approach for screening bioactives and, when combined with functional genomics analysis, results in a powerful tool for understanding the effects of a bioactive.

In conjunction with clinical health researchers, NRC-IMB functional genomics scientists are developing biomarkers for several human diseases. Biomarkers can be any of the types of molecules detected through functional genomics methods and their presence or absence is correlated with a particular disease condition. Screening patients for these biomarkers will allow doctors to determine the progression of the disease and better tailor subsequent treatment.

Related Information

Institutes:

• NRC Institute for Marine Biosciences