Biomarker Analytic Research Core

Biomarkers are playing an increasingly important role in clinical and translational research, especially as we move toward an era of personalized medicine in both the prevention and treatment of disease. The Biomarker Analytic Research Core (BARC) — the central laboratory for the ICTR, DRC and the Biorepository — provides sophisticated tools and expertise for Einstein and Montefiore investigators from the initial study planning stage through analysis and data output.

iLab Solutions

Services

Facility services include:

State-of-the-art mass spectrometry analysis, including stable isotopes, as well as research-grade determination of lipids, and metabolic markers for a variety of human subjects and animal model projects.
High-throughput robotics for semi-automated high-quality sample preparation and analysis by immunoassay and liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC/MS).
Support for novel developmental projects featuring applications of LC/MS and two-site bead-based assays.
Research quality analysis of metabolites for human and animal samples using an Olympus AU400 autoanalyzer.
Advanced training in analytical chemistry.

In addition to its isotope dilution LC/MS assays, BARC has already validated and made available quantitative measurement of 25(OH)2 vitamin D, androstenedione and testosterone via LC/MS. Other dual-use assays for steroids are under development, including ultrahigh sensitivity salivary cortisol, estradiol, and progesterone which will support both clinical care and research use. BARC also offers a novel method for LC/MS measurement of C-peptide, and is currently the reference lab for an ongoing clinical trial measuring insulin secretion.

All samples processed are labeled with barcoded cryolabels for easy identification. Records of samples and data are seamlessly integrated and tracked, and are remotely accessible via a secure research database.