Our services implement the latest and most advanced techniques in various disciplines. Alongside these are the provisions of training and technical advice which must be obtained prior to using the laboratory or any equipment for the first time. Training is provided by specific expert research staff affiliated with the research laboratory (Prof. Ejeatuluchukwu-alo Obi, Prof. George Okechukwu Chukwuma, Prof. Ikemefuna Chijioke Uzochukwu, Prof. Joseph Ifeanyichukwu Ikechebelu, Prof. Okechukwu Charles Esimone, Dr. Linda Anagu, Dr. Izunna Somadina Okwelogu, Dr. Justina Chimezie Akulue and Mrs. Amara June Onu), and research fellows and administrative staff (Mr. Nelson Eberechukwu Oruche, Mr. Chinedu Valentine Ogbuogebe, Mr. Ikenna Makuachukwu Anagboso, Mr. Kenechukwu Emeka Muoneme, Okagbue Chiamaka Chinagorom, Richards Uchenna Madubuko and Mrs. Ngozi Chinelo Ifionu) that work permanently in the laboratory.
Malaria culture room
The malaria culture room is supported by Dr. Linda Anagu. In this facility, Plasmodium falciparum is cultured, in vitro, in human red blood cells. Prospective users of the malaria culture room will have to undergo training before they can independently carry out research in this room. Appropriate risk management and a Code of Practice are documents guiding the use of the malaria culture room for research.
Real time Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR) machine
Gene copy number and relative quantification of gene expression, where changes in transcript levels of the genes under study, compared to a control, can be determined using our qPCR machine. This 48-well qPCR machine can be used to analyse as little as 5 µl of reaction, thus saving a lot on reagents and precious samples. This machine is also used in genotyping.
Plate reader and Photo Documentation System
Our easy-to-use AMR-100 Microplate Reader measures absorbance very fast. It is very accurate and produces reproducible results. It has been used in ELISA immunoassays in our laboratory and can also be used for other protein-based assays. Our Photo Documentation System is used for documenting and analyzing agarose gels.
Access to the facility
Services are available to all members of Nnamdi Azikiwe University and beyond. Potential users should contact the coordinator at +234 8033244122 to discuss the details of their projects.
Training required/available
Various training courses can be provided depending on your level of expertise, requirement and project, but every potential user will undergo a health and safety awareness induction. Collaborative projects will likely involve training in the design and implementation of various techniques and are assessed on an individual basis.
In future, we hope to be able to offer sequencing services and studentship to postgraduate. We will also secure other cutting-edge equipment.