Confocal microscopy and flow cytometry laboratoryThe laboratory is equipped with a four-laser LSRFortessa cytometer that allows high-level multiparametric analyzes to characterize cell populations. A BD FACS Calibur two-laser cytometer is used to perform routine analyzes such as the expression of surface markers. The Zeiss LSM780 confocal microscopy system is a state-of-the-art instrument for the study of various cellular and subcellular biological processes such as intracellular trafficking and localization of pathogen molecules.
The Laboratory for Ecotoxicogenomics and Endocrine Disruption (LEPE) brings together the expertise, knowledge, infrastructure and instrumentation necessary to test the effects of contaminants on the health of living organisms. The experiments are carried out in the laboratory, in microcosm, in mesocosm and in the field. The team is developing unique biomarkers for each target species in order to understand and validate the mechanisms of action of contaminants. The group also specializes in the study of endocrine disruptors and has, among other things, ultra-sensitive cell lines that identify contaminants capable of altering the hormonal response.
This pilot laboratory provides the scientific community and industry with its multidisciplinary expertise and state-of-the-art equipment for the development and scaling of fermentation processes as well as the recovery, purification and characterization of various microbial derivatives. Its primary purpose is R & D in the field of biotechnology, and especially value-added products using putrescible residues as raw material.
Analysis of trace metals in liquid or solid samples (biological tissues, suspended matter, sediments, soils) and bio-optical analysis. Research focuses on the path of toxic metals in the food chain, the bioavailability of contaminants, the impacts of anthropogenic activities and the assessment of the sensitivity of the natural environment. The main equipment is as follows: Particle and radioactivity counters (beta and gamma emissions); Atomic and mass emission spectrometers, by inductively coupled plasma (ICP-AES and ICP-MS); Liquid, gas and ion chromatography devices (HPLC, LC-MS-MS, GC, GC-MS); ICP-MS coupled to an HPLC; Mercury analyzer.
These laboratories make it possible to analyze water samples by colorimetry, fluorometry, spectroscopy, radioisotopy and chromatography, as well as to analyze organic compounds and trace metals present in different matrices (water, effluents, sewage sludge, soils, sediments, biological tissues), and finally, to analyze the elements present in solid samples (rocks, soils, sediments, sludge). X-ray microfluorescence scanning: Non-destructive x-ray analyzes coupled with chemical X-ray fluorescence analysis of rocks, soils and sediments. Scanning electron microscopy: Production of high resolution images of the surface and composition of a sample using technology using electron-matter interactions.
