Acquisition of surface plasmon resonance instrument for enhancing biomedical research and education - understanding molecular interactions is essential for advancing knowledge of biological…

The National Institute of General Medical Sciences awarded the University of Louisiana at Monroe $177,721 on September 1, 2026, under the Biomedical Research and Research Training program (CFDA 93.859) to acquire a Biacore X100 surface plasmon resonance (SPR) instrument for biomedical research and education.

The instrument will enable real-time, label-free analysis of biomolecular interactions, including kinetic and affinity measurements for proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules. ULM will deploy the system for drug discovery, protein interaction studies, biomarker validation, binding detection, affinity ranking, and determination of association and dissociation rate constants. The acquisition will support hands-on training in ULM's research methods course, providing students with practical skills in molecular interaction analysis and strengthening research infrastructure through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Performance takes place in Monroe, Louisiana. The award period runs from September 1, 2026, through August 31, 2027. The assistance type is a Project Grant.

Acquisition of surface plasmon resonance instrument for enhancing biomedical research and education - understanding molecular interactions is essential for advancing knowledge of biological processes and disease mechanisms. Surface plasmon resonance (SPR) is a powerful, label-free technology that enables real-time, high-sensitivity analysis of biomolecular interactions, including kinetic and affinity measurements. We request funding to acquire the biacore X100 to enhance biomedical research and education at the university of louisiana at monroe (ULM). This robust and versatile system supports analysis of proteins, nucleic acids, and small molecules in complex environments and is well suited for drug discovery, protein interaction studies, and biomarker validation. The biacore X100 will address a critical need at ULM by providing a sensitive and efficient platform to characterize macromolecular interactions, including binding detection, affinity ranking, and determination of association and dissociation rate constants. In addition to research applications, the instrument will support hands-on training in ULM's research methods course, equipping students with practical skills in molecular interaction analysis. Overall, this acquisition will strengthen research infrastructure, promote interdisciplinary collaboration, and enhance student training.