Difference between revisions of "Team:UCSF/Collaborations"

COLLABORATIONS

In addition to working on our project, our team also assisted and collaborated with various other iGEM Teams. These interactions allowed us to form stronger connections in the iGEM community and ultimately benefited the projects of all parties involved.

UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA

This team’s goal was to compare mCherry fluorescence readings from 28 archaeal cell extract samples that they provided. This was done in hopes to add to their archaeal ribosomal binding site library. This process took two days; the first day required us to make a buffer and to shake the samples overnight, while the second day demanded more manual work. For this team, we did our own calculations to achieve the ratios they said that we needed. Next, we diligently ran two dilutions for each of the 28 samples and obtained calibration curve readings to analyze the mCherry fluorescence readings on a microplate reader. We also took a survey and filled out data sheets which are mentioned in another section.

In addition to the above mentioned collaboration, we were also involved with a more minor experiment. In this instance, we reported how much dry ice was left in the package that they sent (from the above experiment). They needed to keep tabs for logistical purposes to optimize the amount of dry that was needed based on locations where packages were sent.

TÜBINGEN UNIVERSITY

We sent this iGEM team our E. Cadherin PCP Con2 part. This part is a calcium dependent adhesion transmembrane protein, which plays a vital role in the formation of tissue, epithelial cell behavior, as well as the suppression of cancerous cells.

WIKI FLICKS

To go above and beyond in terms of our policy and practices, we have introduced the concept of WikiFlicks. This site acts as an extension of the annually required team Wiki pages; however, our site aims to bring science to a level in which everyone can understand. This site houses background information from various team projects as well as applications and motivations for the projects performed in the form of short videos. We took advantage of this platform to demystify science and involve the public. The teams involved were:

SIERRA SYSTEMS & SYNBIO SYMPOSIUM

Our team integrally co-organized the Sierra Systems and Synbio Symposium along with the University of Nevada, Reno (UNR) Department of Biochemistry, Synberc. This two-day event gave the chance for undergraduate students from various class levels to present their findings and network with local iGEM teams. Students in lab positions (not related to iGEM) were also part of this opportunity. This event was held at UNR from Aug 29-30, 2015. During this symposium, session topics ranged widely from “protein structure and degradation” and “drug interactions and genomics,” to “biosynthesis and metabolism.” We even set up a five-person graduate school panel for students to open a forum for questions and inspire the students to continue their education. Since there was ample time for us to communicate and spend time with other iGEMers, we were able to share ideas, help each other with concepts, and deepen our understanding of life around us.