Enabling Capabilities for High Impact Science

The 800 MHz NMR Spectrometer is a 4-channel spectrometer equipped with a specially designed 5mm TCI cryoprobe with Z-axis gradient, enabling improved sensitivity for ¹H, ¹⁹F, ¹³C and ¹⁵N detected solution state experiments. In addition, the system incorporates a 24 well sample case for improved automation. This spectrometer will primarily be used for the analysis of biological samples, leading to advances in research areas such as Alzheimer’s disease and cancer.

Impact

The 800 MHz NMR spectrometer is crucial to advance cutting-edge research on proteins involved in cellular trafficking, cataractous aging of the eye, and intrinsically disordered proteins associated with human diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative disease and Alzheimer’s disease. NMR is the only technique to study protein conformations in these diseases which is the first step in the design of novel therapeutics. The 800 MHz spectrometer is the centerpiece of an already established and thriving NMR facility at Oregon State University which together with the internationally recognized faculty expertise in NMR at OSU provides an unparalleled resource for biomedical research in the state. Additionally, the 800 MHz spectrometer will support other universities in the region, stimulate new collaborative projects, and shape the research of a minimum of 20 principal investigators, 20 postdoctoral associates and 50 students. In essence, this instrumentation will increase the capability of OSU’s NMR facility to support its broadening user community and to preserve and expand its world-class research reputation. The 800 MHz spectrometer will also enhance graduate and undergraduate education and career opportunities in the biological sciences at OSU as students will learn to effectively utilize the equipment to conduct research at the interface of structural and cell biology.

Read more about the Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony here.