Center investigators have published a theoretical approach for using the new inherited mutational spectrometry to test whether mutations in certain diseases are related to particular diseases or to any unknown factor limiting or increasing longevity. This technology was licensed by MIT in 2000 to Peoples Genetics, Inc. for characterization of inherited mutations in the human genome. The performance of toxicology research instrumentation has improved tremendously during the last decade. These advances include mass spectrometric approaches to measure DNA adducts or, more recently, the sequences of the heparin-like glycosamino glycans of the extracellular matrix that appear to modulate extracvellular signal transduction. Mutational spectrometric methods have reached the sensitivity needed for studies of human organs.
High throughput automated systems are under construction and new designs appear almost monthly.
In particular the participation of the MIT Bio-Instrumentation Laboratory offers the means to create truly comprehensive systems for performing microanatomical studies of rare events in an entire organ. Such developments bring with them the potential to expedite important discoveries. By coming together as a Research Core, skilled investigators multiply their access not only to a range of powerful research methodologies but also to the people who know how to operate them and interpret the data produced. For example, Ramachandra Dasari brings his expertise in laser spectroscopy to the Core along with access to his laser spectroscopy lab which is anchored to tons of buried concrete for vibrational stability and which contains millions of dollars in laser instrumentation and optical hardware. Barry Karger brings his extensive knowledge of DNA characterization and capillary electrophoresis to bear on CEHS problems and also provides access to his world-class instrumentation laboratory and its staff.