Shared Equipment Available at Manne Research Institute
Shared equipment is available to researchers at Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute. Trained Lurie Children's users have 24/7 access to the equipment and are given permission to schedule their own session. Users must provide all consumables and experimental reagents unless otherwise stated.
User log and/or scheduling requirements vary by equipment. Please sign in using the appropriate user login method for each instrument. Report any instances of non-compliance or concerns about equipment to Research Support Facilities.
For histology and microscopy equipment, see the Histology and Microscopy Group webpage.
The 10x Genomics Chromium Controller is a high-throughput microfluidic instrument designed for single-cell partitioning and barcoding. By enabling the preparation of uniquely barcoded single-cell libraries, it streamlines workflows for genomic research, including immune profiling, oncology studies, and genetic diversity analysis.
Key Features & Benefits:
- High-Throughput Processing: Partitions up to tens of thousands of single cells per run.
- Precision Barcoding: Utilizes microfluidics to generate uniquely barcoded single-cell libraries.
- Compact & Efficient: Small footprint with minimal hands-on time for streamlined operation.
- Seamless Integration: Optimized for use with 10x Genomics’ Single Cell Solutions.
It uses advanced microfluidics to perform single cell partitioning and barcoding in a matter of minutes. Powered by Next GEM technology, the Chromium Controller enables integrated analysis of single cells at scale.
Location: SQBRC 4-307
How to Obtain Access: This oversight of this equipment is managed by the Youyang Zhao Lab. Please email Dr. Ming Sun to request access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment. Extra user logs may be printed here.
Resources: Learn more about the 10X Genomics Chromium Controller.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
Agilent Seahorse XFe96 Analyzer measures the oxygen consumption rate (OCR) and extracellular acidification rate (ECAR) of live cells in a 96-well plate format.
OCR and ECAR rates are key indicators of mitochondrial respiration, glycolysis, and ATP production rates. Together these measurements provide a systems-level view of cellular metabolic function in cultured cells and ex vivo samples.
Please note that the Seahorse XFe96 Analyzer should be powered on 24–48 hours prior to use to warm up the device. Research Support Facilities will power cycle the device at least once per week to ensure proper function.
Location: SQBRC 10-308
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Scheduling for Seahorse XFe96 Analyzer is on a first come, first serve basis. Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment.
Resources: Learn more about the Agilent Seahorse XFe96 Analyzer.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
Droplet Digital™ PCR (ddPCR™) provides ultrasensitive nucleic acid detection and absolute quantification. It is highly effective for resolving low abundance targets, such as allelic or structural variants, that are below the level of detection of other platforms.
The Bio-Rad QX200 ddPCR System, including droplet generator and plate reader, are available to researchers within Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute.
Location: SQBRC 10-308
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment.
Requirements, Limitations, and Additional Information: Research Support Facilities provides BD ddPCR Droplet Reader Oil to support shared equipment use. Researchers must provide all other consumables and experimental reagents. ddPCR 96-Well Plates (BD Catalog: 12001825) must be used with this equipment.
Learn more about the Bio-Rad QX200 ddPCR System.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
The Bioruptor® Pico functions as a high‑precision ultrasonic shearing device used to mechanically fragment biological samples through controlled cavitation. Its primary functions include:
- DNA shearing for library preparation and sequencing
- Chromatin shearing for ChIP‑based assays
- RNA fragmentation
- Fragmentation for epigenetic profiling methods such as CUT&Tag and ATAC‑seq
Using high‑frequency ultrasonic waves, the device ensures uniform energy distribution, producing consistent sample fragmentation across all tubes processed simultaneously. This uniformity is crucial for reproducible downstream molecular biology and sequencing workflows.
The Bioruptor Pico shearing accessories and consumables have been developed to allow flexibility in sample volumes (20 µl - 2 ml) and a fast parallel processing of samples (up to 16 samples simultaneously). The built-in cooling system (Bioruptor® Cooler) ensures high precision temperature control. The user-friendly interface has been designed for any researcher, providing simple and advanced modes that give both beginners and experienced users the right level of control. Additional information can be found on the vendor’s website.
Location: SQBRC 3-509
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment.
Resources: Learn more about the Bioruptor Pico Sonication Device.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
The Bioruptor® Plus functions as a high‑precision ultrasonic shearing device used to mechanically fragment biological samples through controlled cavitation. Its primary functions include:
- DNA shearing for library preparation and sequencing
- Chromatin shearing for ChIP‑based assays
- RNA fragmentation
- Fragmentation for epigenetic profiling methods such as CUT&Tag and ATAC‑seq
Using high‑frequency ultrasonic waves, the device ensures uniform energy distribution, producing consistent sample fragmentation across all tubes processed simultaneously. This uniformity is crucial for reproducible downstream molecular biology and sequencing workflows.
The Bioruptor Plus® has 6 x 1.5 mL and 1 x 15 mL tube holders and a temperature-controlled system for recommended sample volume 100 µL - 2 mL. The user-friendly interface has been designed for any researcher, providing simple and advanced modes that give both beginners and experienced users the right level of control. Additional information can be found on the vendor’s website.
Location: SQBRC 3-509
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment.
Resources: Learn more about the Bioruptor Plus Sonication Device.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
The ChemiDoc XRS+ Gel Imaging System is a fast-detection system for chemiluminescence, fluorescence, and colorimetric imaging.
The system is based on CCD high-resolution, high-sensitivity detection technology and modular options to accommodate a wide range of samples and support multiple detection methods, including fluorescence, colorimetry, densitometry, chemiluminescence, and chemifluorescence. The system is controlled by Image Lab software to optimize imager performance for fast, integrated, and automated image capture and analysis of various samples.
The system accommodates a wide array of samples, from large handcast polyacrylamide gels to small ReadyAgarose Gels and various blots. The system is an ideal accompaniment to PCR, purification, and electrophoresis systems, enabling image analysis and documentation of restriction digests, amplified nucleic acids, genetic fingerprinting, RFLPs, and protein purification and characterization.
Location: SQBRC 3-426
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment.
Resources: Learn more about the ChemiDoc XRS+ Gel Imaging System.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
Within the Simpson Querrey Biomedical Research Center, there are various cold storage options, including 4°C, -20°C, -80°C and under-the-bench varieties of equipment. Cold Rooms are also available on each research floor. If you have any questions regarding the use of cold storage equipment, please feel free to contact Research Support Facilities.
Safeguard the longevity of both the equipment and valuable research samples through consistent maintenance practices. For comprehensive details on maintenance, defrosting procedures and alarm systems specific to freezer equipment, please click here.
The EVOS M7000 Imaging System is a high-performance, fully automated, inverted, multi-channel fluorescence and transmitted light imaging system.
The EVOS M7000 Imaging System offers these advantages:
- Outstanding image quality and versatility with a 5-position objective turret, 4-color LED fluorescence and transmitted light channels, and 3.2 MP CMOS color and B/W cameras
- Exceptional usability with fully automated X/Y scanning stage, autofocus, and acquisition routines
- High-speed image acquisition coupled with multi-position well scanning, and Z-stack and tile-stitch options lend power and flexibility to your data generation
- Fully integrated time-lapse live cell imaging using the optional EVOS Onstage Incubator for precise control of temperature, gases for normoxic or hypoxic conditions, and humidity
- Powerful image analysis capabilities for cell segmentation and quantification with the optional Celleste Image Analysis Software
- EVOS Analysis application allows for annotation, cell count, and 2D deconvolution of images and is provided as standard
Location: 4-410
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment. Extra user log sheets can be printed here.
Requirements, Limitations, and Additional Information: The EVOS M7000 is compatible with the following vessels:
- Microscope and chamber slides
- Hemocytometers
- 6-, 12-, 24-, 48-, 96-, and 384-well microplates
- 35, 50, 60, and 100 mm petri dishes
- T-25, T-75, and T-175 flasks
Learn more about the EVOS M7000 Imaging System.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
The LI-COR Odyssey® Fc Imaging System is a laboratory instrument used to image and analyze biological samples such as Western blots and gels. It combines infrared (IR) fluorescence and chemiluminescent detection in one system, using laser excitation and a CCD camera to capture signals from labeled targets.
The system offers superior chemiluminescent detection, the benefits of quantitative infrared western blot detection, and the ability to analyze DNA gels using the 600nm channel.
Location: SQBRC 4-509
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment. Extra user logs may be printed here.
Resources: Learn more about the LI-COR Odyssey Fc Imaging System.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
The Lonza 4D-Nucleofector System supports Nucleofection of various cell numbers in different formats. The system is comprised of a Core Unit as well as modular X and Y Units. The 4D-Nucleofector Core Unit is the heart of the 4D-Nucleofector System and is needed to control the functional units. As the 4D-Nucleofecor Core Unit can control several functional units, you can set up your 4D-Nucleofector System depending on your needs. An intuitive, touch-screen-based user interface allows you to design and save experiments. In addition, the 4D-Nucleofector Core Unit comes with more than 160 predefined Nucleofection Parameters for cell lines and primary cells.
The 4D-Nucleofector X Unit is for electroporating suspended cells in either 20 µL Nucleocuvette® Strips or 100 µL single Nucleocuvette® Vessels.
The 4D-Nucleofector Y Unit is used for electroporating adherent cells in 24-well culture plates. The Y Unit works with disposable conductive polymer Dipping Electrode Arrays that can be inserted into standard 24-well culture plates for Nucleofection® Procedure.
Location: SQBRC 3-509
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment. Extra user logs may be printed here.
Resources: Learn more about the Lonza 4D-Nucleofector System. Additional information about Nucleofector Kits for use with the 4D-Nucleofector System can be found on the Lonza Bioscience website.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
The MESO QuickPlex SQ 120MM by Meso Scale Diagnostics is a compact, high-performance electrochemiluminescence (ECL) detection system designed for single and multiplex assays.
The system offers high sensitivity and a dynamic range that exceeds 5 logs and is designed to read all 96-well SECTOR and QuickPlex plates. The MESO QuickPlex SQ 120MM reads SECTOR plates 4 wells at a time (24 sectors per plate). QuickPlex plates are read 1 well at a time.
Location: SQBRC 10-308
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log notebook located near the equipment.
Requirements, Limitations, and Additional Information: The MESO QuickPlex SQ 120MM is compatible with all 96-well SECTOR and QuickPlex plates, which are listed on their website.
Resources: Learn more about the MSD MESO QuickPlex SQ 120MM Imaging System.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
When using the centrifuges, users MUST sign in via the user log located with each centrifuge.
Location: 4-419 LER
- Thermo Sorvall Floor RC 6 Plus Centrifuge
Location: 4-411
- Beckman Tabletop OPTIMA MAX Ultracentrifuge, 120,000 RPM
Location: 3-419 LER
- Beckman Floor Optima LE 80K Ultracentrifuge
- Beckman Floor Avanti J-26XP Centrifuge
Location: 3-319 LER
- Beckman Floor Optima LE 100K Ultracentrifuge
- Beckman Floor Avanti J-E Centrifuge
Each neighborhood has two (2) PCs and 1 mac available for everyone to use. Printers are also available in each neighborhood. See available software on each shared computer in SQBRC.
The QuantStudio 3 PCR System is a benchtop RT PCR solution. This equipment is compatible with 96-well plates (0.1-0.2 mL) and can complete an RT PCR run in as little as 30 minutes.
The 4 coupled excitation/emission filters allow for multiplexing of up to 4 targets simultaneously. With a dynamic range of 10-logs and analytical sensitivity as fine as 1 target copy, this system can detect differences as small as 1.5-fold in singleplex reactions and is appropriate for a wide range of RT PCR applications.
Locations: SQBRC 3-328, 3-510, and 4-416
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment. Extra user logs can be printed here.
Resources: Learn more about the QuantStudio 3 PCR system.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
The QuantStudio 6 Flex PCR System is a benchtop RT PCR solution. This equipment is compatible with 96-well plates (0.1-0.2 mL) or 384-well plates and can complete an RT PCR run in as little as 35 minutes.
The 5 coupled excitation/emission filters allow for multiplexing of up to 5 targets simultaneously. With a dynamic range of 10-logs and analytical sensitivity as fine as 1 target copy, this system can detect differences as small as 1.5-fold in singleplex reactions and is appropriate for a wide range of RT PCR applications.
Location: SQBRC 4-307 (96-well plates only), SQBRC 4-509 (384-well plates only), and SQBRC 10-421 (96-well plates only)
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment. Extra user logs can be printed here.
Resources: Learn more about the QuantStudio 6 Flex PCR system.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
The G:BOX Chemi XX9 is used for high sensitivity and precision in chemiluminescent and fluorescent Western blot and gel imaging.
For Western Blot, the G:Box Chemi XX9 captures both strong and faint bands on the same blot with its wide dynamic range, eliminating saturation. With 6MP or 9MP resolution and a superior F/0.8 lens, even closely spaced bands are clearly resolved, delivering sharp, high-quality images for precise analysis.
The platform can also handle chemiluminescence, multiplex fluorescence western blotting, and stain-free imaging while capturing publication-quality Western blot images with ease using GeneSys image capture software.
Locations: SQBRC 3-509 (Ethidium Bromide-free Room) and SQBRC 4-330
How to Obtain Access: Please email Research Support Facilities to request initial training and access to equipment.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: Once authorized for use, please sign in using the user log located near the equipment.
Requirements, Limitations, and Additional Information: Ethidium Bromide is not permitted in SQBRC 3-509.
Learn more about the Syngene G:Box XX9 Gel Imager.
Contacts: If you have any questions regarding the use of this shared equipment, please contact Research Support Facilities.
Flow Cytometry Facility
The BD FACSMelody Cell Sorter is a compact, benchtop cell sorter designed for research applications. It utilizes three lasers and can detect up to eight colors, offering high sensitivity and resolution for identifying and sorting cell populations. The sorter is known for its ease of use, intuitive interface, and ability to purify up to four simultaneous populations.
For a complete list of lasers, filters, and detectors available on the shared BD FACSMelody Cell Sorter, click here.
Location: 10-307
How to Obtain Access: New user training consists of two parts: an online module in Workday and an in-person training session with the Superuser. Access part 1 of new user training here. After completing part 1 of new user training, you will be directed to request in-person training.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: After completing new user training and gaining facility access, refer to the Reserving Shared Flow Cytometry Equipment tipsheet for instructions on reserving equipment.
Requirements, Limitations, and Additional Information: To support use of the shared flow cytometry equipment, Research Support Facilities provides the following to users: PBS, CS&T RUO Beads (Ref# 661414), Accudrop Beads (Ref# 661612), BD Detergent Solution Concentrate (Ref# 660585), ethanol, and bleach. Users are responsible for all other consumables and experimental reagents.
This equipment is compatible with standard-sized, 12x75 mm round flow cytometry tubes.
Learn more about the BD FACSMelody Cell Sorter.
Contacts: Please contact Liz Managlia or Research Support Facilities if you have questions about the BD FACSMelody Cell Sorter.
Acknowledgement: The FACSMelody Cell Sorter (Becton-Dickenson Biosciences, USA) is a shared equipment purchased with support from the National Institutes of Health instrumentation grant S10OD036380) and is available to all researchers at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.
The BD LSRFortessa X-20 Cell Analyzer is designed for high-performance multicolor flow cytometry analysis, capable of detecting up to 20 parameters simultaneously using up to four lasers. The instrument's core features include a cuvette flow cell for enhanced sensitivity and resolution. If you would like to use the HTS option, please contact Liz Managlia.
For a complete list of lasers, filters, and detectors available on the shared BD LSRFortessa X-20 Cell Analyzer, click here.
Location: SQBRC 10-307
How to Obtain Access: New user training consists of two parts: an online module in Workday and an in-person training session with the Superuser. Access part 1 of new user training here. After completing part 1 of new user training, you will be directed to request in-person training.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: After completing new user training and gaining facility access, refer to the Reserving Shared Flow Cytometry Equipment tipsheet for instructions on reserving equipment.
Requirements, Limitations, and Additional Information: To support use of the shared flow cytometry equipment, Research Support Facilities provides the following to users: PBS, CS&T RUO Beads (Ref# 655051), ethanol, and bleach. Users are responsible for all other consumables and experimental reagents.
This equipment is compatible with standard-sized, 12x75 mm round flow cytometry tubes.
Learn more about the BD LSRFortessa X-20 Cell Analyzer.
Contacts: Please contact Liz Managlia or Research Support Facilities if you have questions about the BD LSRFortessa X-20 Cell Analyzer.
The Cytek Aurora is an air-cooled, multi-laser, benchtop spectral flow cytometer with the ability to acquire parameters for a large number of colors. The major components of this system include the Aurora flow cytometer, the fluidics tanks for sheath and waste fluid, and the computer workstation. If you would like to use the plate sampler option, please contact Liz Managlia.
For a complete list of lasers, filters, and detectors available on the shared Cytek Aurora flow cytometer, click here.
Location: SQBRC 10-307
How to Obtain Access: New user training consists of 2 parts: an online module in Workday and an in-person training session with the Superuser. Access part 1 of new user training here. After completing part 1 of new user training, you will be directed to request in-person training.
How to Book/Reserve Equipment: After completing new user training and gaining facility access, refer to the tipsheet Reserving Shared Flow Cytometry Equipment for instructions on reserving equipment.
Requirements, Limitations, and Additional Information: To support use of the shared flow cytometry equipment, Research Support Facilities provides the following to users: PBS, SpectroFlo QC Beads, Contrad 70 detergent, ethanol, and bleach. Users are responsible for all other consumables and experimental reagents.
This equipment is compatible with standard-sized, 12x75-mm round flow cytometry tubes and a variety of 96-well plates.
Learn more about the Cytek Aurora flow cytometer.
Contacts: Please contact Liz Managlia or Research Support Facilities if you have questions about the Cytek Aurora flow cytometer.
