Genome Center of Eastern Finland (GCEF)

The mission of the Genome Center of Eastern Finland is to advance research in genomics at the University of Eastern Finland (UEF) and to support research groups in forming a multidisciplinary research entity of European significance in the field of complex diseases on the Kuopio and Joensuu campuses. The Genome Center of Eastern Finland includes the Gene Diagnostics Laboratory which is an accredited testing laboratory (FINAS accreditation service, T321) in accordance with the requirements of SFS-EN ISO 15189:2022. The Gene Diagnostics Laboratory provides genetic diagnostic services for the molecular profiling of solid tumors and the diagnosis of monogenic diseases. In addition, the laboratory offers pharmacogenomic testing.

The Genome Center of Eastern Finland was originally established around research in the genetics of internal medicine, and other research groups have since become closely integrated into its activities. The Genome Center of Eastern Finland is part of Biocenter Kuopio.

The key strategic objective of the Genome Center of Eastern Finland is to develop and maintain the infrastructure and research opportunities for genetic research at UEF. Its development activities anticipate future methodological needs, particularly those that will create better conditions for genetic research of complex diseases.

The Genome Center of Eastern Finland is located on the Kuopio campus of UEF.

The Gene Diagnostics Laboratory, located in Mediteknia building, carries out DNA and RNA sequencing, including NGS and Sanger sequencing, fragment analysis, genotyping, gene expression studies, and related data analysis.

The Genome Center of Eastern Finland provides several shared-use instruments for research groups at the university. The Genome Center is responsible for the proper operation and maintenance of the shared-use instruments and provides orientation and user training related to the instruments. The Genome Center also assists with the analysis of research data when needed.

Shared-use instruments:

• NGS sequencing instruments: Illumina NextSeq 2000 Sequencing system and MiniSeq
• Sanger sequencing instrument: Applied Biosystems 3500xL Genetic Analyzer
• NGS library preparation robot: Agilent Technologies MagnisDx NGS Prep Instrument
• Quantitative PCR instrument: Applied Biosystems QuantStudio 5 Real-Time PCR Instrument
• DNA/RNA extraction instruments: Qiagen QIAcube and QIAcube Connect MDx
• Automated gel electrophoresis instruments: Agilent Technologies TapeStation 4150 and Fragment Analyzer 5200
• Spektrophotometer: NanoDrop Technologies NanoDrop ND-1000
• Fluorometer: Life Technologies Qubit 2.0 Fluorometer (two instruments, pre- and post-PCR)
• Pipetting robot: Tecan Freedom EVO

For enquiries about the use of shared-use instruments and user fees, please contact the staff of the Gene Diagnostics Laboratory: Joose Raivo, tel. +358 40 355 2739, or Seppo Helisalmi, tel. +358 44 716 2022.