Abstract: Biologic information is obtained concerning a member of a population by obtaining a sample of placental tissue from the member, storing the sample without embedding it in an embedding medium, retrieving from storage the sample associated with the member and thereafter analyzing it for biologic information. Storage may be in a fixative such as formalin or a formalin substitute. When a tissue sample from more than one member is collected, a library is created that may be used for a variety of purposes, including reducing the incidence of medical malpractice claims, identification of members such as paternity testing or suspect identification, pharmaceutical development and epidemiological surveys and research.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for deparaffinizing a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue, including: providing a formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sample; mixing the formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sample with an organic solvent and water or with an organic solvent and an aqueous solution to form a mixture, wherein a density of the organic solvent is less than that of the water or the aqueous solution, and the organic solvent is immiscible with the water or the aqueous solution; and separating the mixture into an organic solution layer and an aqueous solution layer, wherein a paraffin dissolved from the formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sample is in the organic solution layer and a deparaffinized tissue from the formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sample is in the aqueous solution layer and/or an interlayer between the organic solution layer and the aqueous solution layer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for processing a wax-embedded biological sample, the use of poly(organosiloxane)s for liquefying the embedding medium of a wax-embedded biological sample and a kit for processing a wax-embedded biological sample.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method of developing a Tumor Model System. The invention deals with a tumor model system with adhesion deprived cells. This observation provides a new method for primary detection of transformation of adhesion-deprived cells and tumorigenicity. The adhesion-deprived cells are capable of metastasizing at distant sites and the model system includes both the tumor formation and metastasis.

Abstract: Acer rubrum (red maple) foliage may obtain a deep scarlet color. Crocus vernus may display deep purple petals and yellow pistils. Stains from each of these may be extracted by processing targeted portions. One technique is to harvest the material, rinse the harvested material in water, immerse in 70% isopropyl alcohol until the alcohol leaches color out of the material, filter a liquid portion, dehydrate, and re-dissolve in 20% isopropyl alcohol. This extract may then be used to stain tissue.

Abstract: The invention generally relates to methods for analyzing a metabolite level in a sample. In certain embodiments, methods of the invention may involve obtaining a sample, analyzing the sample using a mass spectrometry technique to determine a level of at least one metabolite in the sample, and correlating the metabolite level with an originating source of the sample, thereby analyzing the sample.

Abstract: A stabilized hematoxylin composition is disclosed that includes one or both of a host compound and an antioxidant. The disclosed composition exhibits sufficient stability to be utilized in an automated staining process without undue degradation prior to use of the composition to stain a biological sample. Methods of using and making the stabilized composition also are disclosed.

Abstract: In a process of fabricating a tissue array, a tissue block is sliced to obtain sheet-form pieces of tissue, and each of the sheet-form pieces is closely rolled around a guide member to form a spiral shape tissue around the guide member. Then, the spiral shape tissues are inserted in an axial direction into holes arrayed in a base block.

Abstract: A film (14) with a tissue section (10) is placed with the tissue section (10) downward on a microscope slide (18) and the microscope slide (18) positioned in the object plane of an inverse microscope; where an adhesive tape (20) is arranged, with a bonding agent (22) downward, above the film (14) and therefore above the tissue section (10); wherein the next step, tissue (36) to be isolated is excised by a focused laser beam, which also divides the film (14); whereupon removal of the adhesive tape (20) from the microscope, the excised tissue pieces (36) adhere to the adhesive tape (20), and the remnant of the film (14) and of the tissue section (10) remains adhering/to the microscope slide (18).

Abstract: A laser-micro-dissection method and a device for laser micro-dissection involves cutting a dissectate from a biological sample, which is applied to a planar carrier, by means of laser pulses along a closed cutting line. The parameters, which determine the laser pulses and the cut lines, are synchronous in relation to the laser pulses and are continually modified along the closed cut line. All elements which are arranged in the optical axis and which determine the parameters of the laser pulse and the cut lines, are controlled by a central calculation unit.

Abstract: A container for storing a biological sample is disclosed. The container includes a first chamber having a sidewall extending between an open end and a closed end, defining a first chamber interior adapted to receive a sample holder therein. The container also includes a second chamber having a sidewall extending between an open end and a closed end, defining a second chamber interior adapted to subsequently receive the sample holder therein. The second chamber interior is in fluid isolation from the first chamber interior. A removable closure encloses at least one of the open end of the first chamber and the open end of the second chamber while the sample holder is disposed within one of the first chamber interior and the second chamber interior. A first fluid may be disposed within the first chamber interior, and a second different fluid may be disposed within the second chamber interior.

Abstract: A method is provided for detecting a target molecule in a biological sample. One step of the method includes immobilizing the biological sample on a membrane. Next, the membrane-bound biological sample is contacted with at least one detection moiety. The membrane-bound biological sample is then separately mated with a substrate and the target molecule detected. At least one step of the method is performed under positive pressure or a vacuum.

Abstract: A tissue sample that has been removed from a subject can be evaluated. A change in speed of the energy traveling through the sample is evaluated to monitor changes in the biological sample during processing. The monitoring can detect movement of fluid with the sample and cross-linking. A system for performing the method can include a transmitter that outputs the energy and a receiver configured to detect the transmitted energy.

Abstract: The present invention relates to novel uses of the MLN 51 gene or protein. The MLN 51 gene and protein is closely related to the development of rheumatoid arthritis and serve as biomarker and therapeutic target for rheumatoid arthritis, particularly chronic synovitis.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods and compositions for deparaffinizing paraffin-embedded biological samples for subsequent tissue staining. The compositions are microemulsions that may include water/oil/surfactant microemulsions, and optionally a cosurfactant. The microemulsions enable deparaffinization without the use of xylene or toluene, and also enable solvent exchange without the use of intermediary alcohol dehydration or alcohol rehydration compositions.

Abstract: A process for maintaining 3 dimensional orientation between a tissue specimen and images of the area of investigation, to register histopathologic diagnoses of multiple locations within the specimen with corresponding locations on the surface of said area of investigation.

Abstract: Systems and methods of sample (1) and staining processing including compression and dynamic movement of liquids (3) in a fluidically moving substantially contained liquid bridge (6) perhaps between a hydrophobic wand (4) and a hydrophilic sample support element (2). Embodiments may include low volume reagent and perhaps even low volume buffer wash in sample processing. In addition, antibodies can be conjugated with nanoparticles (64) and can be used in sample processing. Exposing a sample with or without movement to AC, DC, or even a permanent magnet field may improve staining. Staining with nanoparticle reagents could be quantified using a microscope with a magnetometer below the slide viewing area. The detection of nanoparticles attached to the chemistry may facilitate the quantification of cancerous cells stained in the tissue.

Abstract: A tissue cassette includes a body having a first floor and a first perimeter wall encircling and extending from the first floor so that the first floor and first perimeter wall at least partially bound a body cavity, the first floor having a plurality of spaced apart openings extending therethrough. A mold has a second floor and a second perimeter wall encircling and extending from the second floor so that the second floor and second perimeter wall at least partially bound a mold cavity, the second floor having at least one micropore extending therethrough, the at least one micropore having a maximum diameter less than 0.040 inches. A hinge couples the body to the mold so that the body and mold can move between a closed position wherein the first floor overlies the second floor so as to form a tissue compartment therebetween and an open position.

Abstract: Dewaxing buffers containing a water-soluble organic solvent, methods for use thereof, and kits incorporating dewaxing buffers. The dewaxing buffers contain a water soluble organic solvent that has a boiling point of at least 80° C. The dewaxing buffers described herein can be used to quickly and efficiently remove embedding paraffin from slide-mounted tissue sections in an aqueous buffer solution at elevated temperature without fear of paraffin redeposition of the slides. In addition, the dewaxing buffers described herein can be used to perform dewaxing and HIER in a single step, which can substantially reduce protocol time and lower the risk of sample loss or damage.

Abstract: It is disclosed herein that antibodies specific for preproproteins or preproteins, which are synthesized by certain types of cells or tissues, can be used in immunohistochemistry assays to discriminate between the intracellular component of the protein (including the preproprotein, preprotein and/or proprotein forms of the protein) from the secreted component of the same protein. Accordingly, provided herein is an immunohistochemical method for specific detection of the intracellular form of a protein in a biological sample using an antibody specific for the preproprotein or preprotein form of the protein. In particular examples, the protein is albumin or an immunoglobulin light chain. Also disclosed herein are preproprotein-specific ore preprotein-specific antibodies that can be used to detect specific cell types, tissue lesions or other pathological foci and metastases by IHC. In particular, antibodies that specifically bind human preproalbumin, but do not bind the secreted form of albumin are disclosed.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for reversing fixation-induced cross-linking in tissue specimens that have been preserved for histological examination. The method involves placing the fixed tissue in a liquid under elevated temperature and pressure conditions that are sufficient to reverse the fixation-induced cross-linking, restore antigenicity to proteins, and permit improved molecular and proteomic analysis of the preserved tissue specimen. Methods are also disclosed for processing tissues for histological examination under elevated pressure conditions that enhance the perfusion of liquid reagents into the tissue and reduce overall processing times.

Abstract: The present invention provides a method to induce maturation of an immature GI-tract, such as intestine, e.g. small intestine, the method comprising the steps of administering a mixture of enzymes to the immature GI-tract, said enzymes having a pancreatic activity or action, and/or pancreatic like activity or action, and analysing the maturation process of the GI-tract to monitor said maturation process. Provided herein are also uses and kits to provide for GI-tract maturation.

Abstract: An apparatus including at least one of a stainer module and a coverslipper module; an imaging module; a storage module; an automated transport module for transporting at least one slide between at least one of the stainer module and the coverslipper module, the imaging module and the storage module; and a controller. A method including processing at least one slide; determining whether an imaging module is available for imaging of a biological specimen on the at least one slide; transporting the at least one slide to the imaging module using an automated transport module; and transporting the at least one slide to a storage module using the automated transport module when it is determined that the imaging module is not available. A system including a processing module for processing at least one slide including a biological specimen thereon. A machine readable medium.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for enhancing immunoreactivity of a tissue or cell sample fixed in a fixing medium, a target retrieval composition and its use. The method comprises providing a carrier in a horizontal position, said carrier having thereon a tissue or cell sample, said tissue or cell sample being on top of the carrier; contacting substantially the tissue or cell sample side of the carrier with a buffered target retrieval solution, wherein the target retrieval solution remains otherwise exposed to the environment; heating the tissue or cell sample and the target retrieval solution to a temperature above 100° C. The invention furthermore concerns the automated immunohistochemical staining of said samples, in particular the reactivation of antigens masked by fixation.

Abstract: Methods for identifying stem cells and other cells specific to embryogenesis and carcinogenesis, classifying tissue samples, diagnosing precancerous and cancerous or atherosclerotic lesions, testing the value of anticancer agents, discovering macromolecules specifically expressed in particular cell types, using stem cells in restorative tissue therapy as well as methods for preparing tissue samples so heteromorphic nuclear morphotypes remain intact are disclosed.

Abstract: The invention provides a method for forming tissue pieces which allows stable and accurate winding around a core rod in rolling a sheet-like tissue piece, and a device therefor. In the tissue pieces used as each tissue piece in a tissue array obtained by arranging the tissue pieces on a substrate in an array form, the method for forming a roll-shaped tissue piece 6 obtained by rolling a sheet-like tissue piece 8 is characterized by the facts that the sheet-like tissue piece 8 is produced by slicing a tissue block 5 obtained by embedding the tissues with an embedding medium, the sheet-like tissue piece 8 is placed on a mounting block 12, peeling means 13 which easily enables peeling of the tissue piece 8 from the mounting block 12 is applied between the mounting block 12 and the tissue piece 8, and the tissue piece 8 is wound around a core rod 11 while heating the tissue piece 8 on the mounting block 12.

Abstract: The invention provides novel methods of enhancing axonal regeneration. The methods of the invention are suitable for use in treating a subject suffering from a nerve injury.

Abstract: A sample container (20) for receptacle devices for receiving biological objects that may be used for example as collecting devices (30) in laser microdissection systems is described, in which the sample container (20) has a coding (23) with the aid of which the sample holder in the laser microdissection system can be unambiguously identified in order subsequently to be able to allocate correctly biological objects (43) to be dissected to individual receptacle containers (31) of the identified receptacle device (30) or of the identified sample holder (20), so as to carry out a fully automated microdissection procedure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a transgenic fertilized egg in which expression constructs, excluding human expression constructs, are introduced, including: (a) a nucleotide sequence encoding hypoxia-inducible factor 2? (HIF-2?); and (b) a transcription-regulating sequence which is operatively linked to the nucleotide sequence, as well as to a transgenic animal model for arthritis obtained therefrom. A transgenic mouse transformed with a recombinant expression vector of the present invention may be very useful as a therapeutic model for arthritis, which may be used in studies on the cartilage degeneration process. In addition, the transgenic mouse of the present invention may be applied to a method for screening arthritis therapeutics.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for determination of target cells or tissue for isolating or extracting biomolecules from fixed biological samples, the preparation of a sample in a method for extracting, isolating and/or purifying biomolecules from a fixed biological sample as well as to a kit for visualizing target cells or tissue in a fixed biological sample for extracting, isolating and/or purifying biomolecules from said target cells or tissue.

Abstract: In order to pick up a sufficient amount of cells for a genetic test from a section of a biological tissue with a simple structure and a simple operation, provided is a cell collection apparatus comprising: a substrate which is provided to be dividable into a plurality of small pieces along a predetermined dividing line, and which has a flat surface to which a section of a biological tissue can be pasted; a sheet-shaped expandable member to which the substrate can be adhered in a detachable manner, and which is expandable in a direction along the surface; a expansion unit for expanding the expandable member in at least a region adhered with the substrate, in a direction along the surface; and a pickup unit for detaching and picking up the divided small pieces from the expandable member.

Abstract: Tissue orientation devices include a perforated tissue support with at least one perforated channel for receiving a tissue sample, and a plurality of tabs configured to extend along and into the channel to retain the tissue sample during processing and embedding. Tissue orientation devices include elongated legs coupled together for holding one or more biopsy tissue samples therebetween. Associated methods include using the cassettes and orientation devices to hold and orient tissue samples for processing, embedding and microtome sectioning.

Abstract: This invention discloses a method for utilizing soft X-ray microimaging for cancer cell image recognition. The method comprises the steps of 1) sample preparation; 2) pathological examination; 3) soft X-ray imaging; and 4) analysis and recognition. This invention applies soft X-ray microimaging for cancer cell image recognition, successfully obtains the soft X-ray microscopic image of a cancer cell by scanning the cancer cell with synchrotron radiation soft X-ray microimaging, provides recognition steps and experimental data, and establishes a method for utilizing soft X-ray microimaging for cancer cell image recognition. This invention creates a method for analyzing soft X-ray microscopic images, provides a novel synchrotron radiation soft X-ray pathological diagnosis method for cancer diagnosis, and provides an extremely valuable basis for the creation and clinical application of soft X-ray pathology in the 21st century.

Abstract: A fixative for biological tissue made up of polymerized carbon nanotubes encapsulating osmium nanoparticles and its method of synthesis are disclosed. Carbon nanotubes are first oxidized. Next, the oxidized carbon nanotubes and monohydrated citric acid are mixed to synthesize carbon nanotubes grafted with poly(citric acid). The carbon nanotubes grafted with poly(citric acid) are then mixed with an osmium source to synthesize carbon nanotubes grafted with poly(citric acid) encapsulating osmium nanoparticles. The nano-fixative of this application has been shown to improve fixation of biological tissue relative to well-known fixatives.

Abstract: The present invention relates to the use of proteins that are differentially expressed in tumor associated stromal cells, as compared to normal stromal, as biomolecular targets for tumor treatment therapies. The present invention also provides compounds and pharmaceutically acceptable compositions for administration in the methods of the invention.

Abstract: An apparatus for automatic execution of different treatment operations in connection with staining of tissue specimens on microscope slides, wherein the apparatus (1) comprises a loading station (2) for microscope slides (7) with tissue specimens, a number of reagent stations (3) for staining of the tissue specimens on supplied microscope slides, a conveyor (5) for transfer of microscope slides (7) between the stations (3) in accordance with a staining program, an unloading station (10) for treated microscope slides, and a control unit (19) for controlling the treatment operations in accordance with a data program. The apparatus comprise a photo station (25) with a digital camera (26) for automatic photographing with a background light source of the finished treated tissue specimens on supplied microscope slides (7).

Abstract: Disclosed in a method of detecting cancer using IL-27 receptors. IL27R is a cytokine receptor identified as a novel oncogene from an acute myeloid leukemia patient. It induces cancer-like properties when expressed in cells and can activate a protein that causes various myeloid cell disorders. The data show cytokine receptors play unappreciated roles in mediating activation of signaling pathways in circulatory system cancers. Also method of screening for novel oncogenes using a functional, approach is disclosed using cytokine-dependent cells to screen for transforming events.

Abstract: The invention is directed to methods and compositions for deparaffinizing paraffin-embedded biological samples for subsequent tissue staining The compositions are microemulsions that may include water/oil/surfactant microemulsions, and optionally a cosurfactant. The microemulsions enable deparaffinization without the use of xylene or toluene, and also enable solvent exchange without the use of intermediary alcohol dehydration or alcohol rehydration compositions.

Abstract: The invention concerns anti-clusterin oligoclonal antibodies able to recognize and bind in a selective and specific way antigenic epitopes of clusterin isoforms to be used in tumors diagnosis and in the prediction of their malignancy grade, diagnostic method and related kits.

Abstract: The current disclosure provides for specific peptides from the Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) protein and the derived ionization characteristics of those peptides that are advantageous for quantifying the EGFR directly in formalin fixed biological samples by the method of Selected Reaction Monitoring (SRM) mass spectrometry. Such fixed biological samples include: formalin-fixed tissue/cells, formalin-fixed/paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue/cells, FFPE tissue blocks and cells from those blocks, and formalin fixed and paraffin embedded tissue culture cells. EGFR protein is quantitated in biological samples by the method of SRM/MRM mass spectrometry by quantitating one or more of the peptides described herein. The peptides can be quantitated if they reside in a modified or an unmodified form. Examples of potentially modified forms of an EGFR peptides include those bearing phosphorylation of a tyrosine, threonine, serine, and/or other amino acid residues within the peptide sequence.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for reversing fixation-induced cross-linking in tissue specimens that have been preserved for histological examination. The method involves placing the fixed tissue in a liquid under elevated temperature and pressure conditions that are sufficient to reverse the fixation-induced cross-linking, restore antigenicity to proteins, and permit improved molecular and proteomic analysis of the preserved tissue specimen. Methods are also disclosed for processing tissues for histological examination under elevated pressure conditions that enhance the perfusion of liquid reagents into the tissue and reduce overall processing times.

Abstract: The present invention provides and includes monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) preferentially selective for HER2 antigens, hybridoma lines that secrete these HER2 antibodies or antibody fragments, and the use of such antibodies and antibody fragments to detect HER2 antigens, particularly those expressed by cancer cells. The present invention also includes antibodies that are specific for or show preferential binding to a soluble or secreted form of HER2. The present invention also includes an antibody or antibody fragment that is capable of reducing the activity of HER2 in at least one form, including a soluble form or a secreted form. The present invention further includes chimeric antibodies, processes for producing monoclonal and chimeric antibodies or monoclonal or chimeric antibodies, and their therapeutic uses, particularly in the detection of cancer most preferentially in human breast, stomach, and colon.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for creating two- and three-dimensional arrays. Plates of sample materials are stacked to create primary stacks. Primary stacks are sliced to form combs. Combs are stacked to form secondary stacks. Secondary stacks are sliced to form tertiary plates or two-dimensional arrays. Tertiary plates can be stacked to form three-dimensional arrays. The two- and three-dimensional arrays can be used in large-scale parallel processing of samples, pattern printing, tissue engineering, microfluidics, microelectronics, and microconstruction.

Abstract: A histologic tissue sample support device includes a tissue support formed of material that can be successfully sectioned in a microtome and is resistant to degradation from solvents and chemicals used to fix, process and stain tissue. A resilient cellular material is coupled to the tissue support and is configured to engage and retain tissue in place during processing and embedding. The resilient cellular material is also capable of successful sectioning in the microtome and porous to allow infiltration of the solvents and chemicals used to fix, process and stain tissue, and of embedding material used to embed the tissue while the tissue is retained by the resilient cellular material.

Abstract: The invention relates to anti-hedgehog antibodies, their use in the detection of hedgehog expression in tissue, and to the use of such detection in the treatment of cancer.

Abstract: A cryogenic biopsy device is configured to provide thin, frozen tissue samples, which may be viewed under a microscope and selected for biomarker analysis. The device is configured to provide slices which are less than 50 micrometers in thickness, while snap-freezing the tissue and maintaining the sample in a deep-frozen state until it reaches the pathology lab for further processing. Alternatively, thicker slices can be harvested by the device and additional sectioning can be done in the pathology lab by using cryomicrotome. The device of the present invention may be used in rigid instruments and in flexible devices, such as endoscopes, for example, and may be suitable for single use or multiple use.

Abstract: The invention relates to a method and device for the cross-referencing of identification (1) of tissue slice supports (2), for microtomised analytical samples still to be mounted thereon, with identification information (3) of a tissue sample holder (4) of a tissue sample (5) which is not yet microtomised. The conventional problem of cross-referencing is improved in a simple manner, whereby the identification information (3) for the tissue sample holder (4) is automatically detected when positioned in the microtome (6) and an identification (1) corresponding thereto is automatically transferred to at least one tissue slice support (2) and that tissue slice support (2), provided with the identification (1), is dispensed for application of the tissue sample slice at the moment when a tissue sample slice must be applied to a tissue slice support (2).

Abstract: Disclosed herein are antigen-binding molecules, such as antibodies, that specifically recognize a portion of the EGFR C-terminal (intracellular) regulatory domain that interacts with one or more regulatory molecules (such as Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling (“SOCS”) proteins). In certain normal or neoplastic cells and/or tissues, this region is inaccessible to the disclosed antigen-binding molecules. Thus, such antigen-binding molecules are useful at least to interrogate the regulated state of EGFR, predict the response of a cancer patient to EGFR inhibitor therapies, and/or predict the aggressiveness of neoplasms.

Abstract: Tissue orientation devices include a perforated tissue support with at least one perforated channel for receiving a tissue sample, and a plurality of tabs configured to extend along and into the channel to retain the tissue sample during processing and embedding. Tissue orientation devices include elongated legs coupled together for holding one or more biopsy tissue samples therebetween. Associated methods include using the cassettes and orientation devices to hold and orient tissue samples for processing, embedding and microtome sectioning.

Abstract: A mobile intra-operative microscopic diagnosis laboratory capable of analyzing fresh tissue specimens and providing intra-operative consultation within 20 minutes is described. The mobile laboratory is preferably a van and contains a cryostat for freezing the fresh tissue specimens and a means for cutting the specimens. In addition, it also contains the means for reading the slides to make microscopic diagnosis and a means for handling for fresh tissue and a means for indicating various locations in the specimen, preferably by inking them. It preferably contains a stainer for staining the samples and an intercom for communicating the microscopic diagnosis back to the operating room.