UCSF Diabetes Research Center (DRC) Mouse Metabolism Core

The objectives of the Diabetes Research Center metabolic core is to facilitate metabolic studies at UCSF. There is an increasing number of investigators conducting research in obesity and metabolic diseases,and adequate core equipment is necessary to support these studies. The core will provide technical support for UCSF investigators to conduct metabolic studies using a 12-chambered Comprehensive Lab Animal Monitoring System (CLAMS), an EchoMRI, and Dual energy X-ray absorptiometry, which together allow measurement of food intake, water intake, motor activities, core temperature, and body composition in live mice.

The use of these instruments allows longitudinal measurements of key metabolic parameters in the same cohort of animals at different ages and under different feeding conditions, and will enable the accumulation of data over several months of time. We are very excited to offer access to a brand new Seahorse Bioscience XFe24 Extracellular Flux Analyzer, a platform for metabolic assays, simultaneously measuring the two major energy producing pathways of the cell – mitochondrial respiration and glycolysis - in a 24-well microplate, in real-time.

Research laboratories are provided with ready access to and training in the proper use of the equipment. The Core distributes the costs of maintaining sophisticated equipment across its many users through a recharge system. If available, Core personnel also may directly perform studies on a fee-basis. The Core, in collaboration with similar Core facilities on campus, also helps to identify emerging technologies that will enhance multiple research programs and coordinates the acquisition and maintenance of those facilities. Feedback on available or missing services is always appreciated.