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A DNA Sequencer at BBG!
March 2000
MARCH 21, 2000 - With the addition of an automated DNA sequencer (ABI Prismtm 310 Genetic Analyzer) to their recently refurbished molecular systematics laboratory, scientists at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden now have a state-of-the-art facility for studying how plant species evolved and how they are related.
"This is an very exciting time for all of us here at the Garden," says Dr. Steve Clemants, BBG's Vice President of Science. "We are now equipped to carry out all the stages of modern DNA analysis in house."
Dr. Mark Tebbitt in BBG's Molecular Systematics Laboratory
Research currently underway in the lab includes a collaborative effort by BBG's Dr. Mark Tebbitt and Ithaca College's Dr. Susan Swenson to investigate the phylogeny or "family tree" of Begonia, as part of a project funded by the National Science Foundation.
A second research project, being coordinated by BBG's Dr. Katherine Gould, is using DNA fingerprint technology to aid efforts to save the endangered bushy rock rose (Helianthemum dumosum). Partial funding for this research has been provided by the Massachusetts Natural Heritage and Endangered Species Program.
BBG's new sequencer, which arrived in February 2000, was purchased with funds from the Brooklyn delegation of the New York City Council. The refurbishment of the molecular systematics laboratory, completed in the fall of 1999, was made possible by funding from the BBG Auxilary and by a generous donation of equipment from Hoechst Marion Roussel, Inc. of Bridgewater, New Jersey.