DNA
We carry out DNA extractions from various tissues for RUB-internal as well as for external scientists. After quality and quantity determination, these samples can then either be sent on or tested in our laboratory for DNA variations, DNA methylation, mtDNA or telomere lengths.
Epigenetic analysis
We have recently published a protocol for facilitated DNA methylation analysis with improved quality in terms of sensitivity, accuracy, coverage and costs. We are happy to offer interested scientists to carry out this application on their behalf. Assays are already established for a large number of candidate genes (FKBP5, MAOA, NR3C1, OXTR, SLC6A4 and many more), but we are also open to establish further candidate genes on request. We would be happy to advise you on the planning of the assay, as well as its implementation and analysis.
mtDNA and telomer length quantification
Recent research suggests that stress can have a major impact on the number of mitochondria per cell as well as the total number of mitochondrial DNA. It is also known that stress influences telomerase activity, impacting telomere length which can be measured by qPCR. Both techniques are regularly used in our research. We also carry out these investigations on behalf of interested scientists.
Hormone analysis
The part of the laboratory subordinate to the Department of Cognitive Psychology (Prof. Oliver Wolf) mainly deals with measurements of stress-associated hormones. We routinely measure salivary cortisol using ELISA but also alpha-amylase activity. Our portfolio now also includes salivary analysis of the following steroid hormones: DHEA, 17ß-Estradiol, Progesterone, Testosterone.
We also carry out these and other hormone measurements on behalf of interested scientists. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
How to label and ship saliva samples
The Labratory of Genetic Psychology participates in external interlaboratory tests twice a year in order to continuously check the validity of its own results. Here are the results of the latest validity tests (LabCode Genetic Psychology: #40047).
Hair cortisol measurement
Hair can preserve substances over a long period of time and is therefore ideal for retrospective cortisol analysis. Small amounts of hair are sufficient to generate meaningful data. In addition, the samples can be obtained in a minimally invasive manner and the hair can be easily stored over a long period of time. We have established a hair cortisol assay for this purpose, which we regularly validate through an independently conducted round robin test. We also offer this analysis to other scientists. If you are interested, please contact us.
Hair Sample Extraction Explanatory Video
Hair Sample Extraction Protocol
Hair Cortisol Proficiency Test 2024
Hair Cortisol Certificate 2024
Contact Dr. Dirk Moser
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Last update: Aug 13, 2024
