Network Biology Collaborative Centre

The capacity to sequence genomes has far outpaced the ability to understand the biological function of each individual gene and its countless variants, let alone how their protein products assemble into complex networks that control cellular behaviour. The Network Biology Collaborative Centre provides critical added value to the genomics enterprise by offering integrated services for functional genomics and proteomics studies. This integration allows users to rapidly transition from deciphering gene function to identifying physical interactors and small molecule inhibitors thus shortening the time from fundamental discovery to drug development. Located in the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute at Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, the Centre operates through multiple complementary divisions: proteomics, high-throughput screening, next-generation sequencing, and high-content to high-resolution imaging. The proteomics node has unique expertise in functional proteomics, particularly protein-protein interactions, where validated experimental approaches are combined with a unique and robust computational platform. The high-throughput screening (HTS) facility enables the physical and functional interrogation of mammalian systems through application of an extensive collection of cDNA libraries, RNA interference resources and small molecule libraries. Complementing these two facilities, a suite of high-content, automated imaging and high spatial-temporal resolution instruments permit various screening modalities. The next-generation sequencing facility specializes in transcriptomics and CRISPR pooled screening support. The NBCC provides not only its extensive expertise in the design and application of sophisticated screening strategies through these nodes, but also its ability to integrate these screens with each other to drive biological insights.