Microtome

1. Histological analysis: Microtomy is essential for the preparation of thin, uniform sections of tissue specimens for microscopic examination. These sections are then stained and mounted onto slides for histological analysis. Microtomy enables the visualization of cellular and tissue structures, aiding in the diagnosis and characterization of diseases in diagnostic pathology. It also facilitates research by providing crucial insights into the morphological features of tissues and cells.

2. Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Microtomy is often employed in immunohistochemistry, a technique used to detect and localize specific proteins or antigens in tissue sections. Thin sections prepared by microtomy allow for optimal antibody penetration, maximizing the sensitivity and accuracy of IHC analysis. By facilitating the visualization of protein expression patterns, microtomy helps researchers and pathologists identify disease markers, assess treatment response, and study various biological processes.

3. Molecular pathology: Microtomy also plays a role in molecular pathology, where it is used for the preparation of tissue sections for molecular analyses, including DNA or RNA extraction, in situ hybridization, and fluorescence in situ hybridization. By obtaining well-preserved and properly sectioned tissue samples, microtomy ensures the accuracy and reliability of molecular studies, enabling genetic and genomic analysis, studying mutational profiles, and guiding personalized therapies.

4. Tissue banking and research repositories: Microtomy is instrumental in the creation of tissue banks and research repositories. By cutting and mounting thin sections of tissue samples, microtomy facilitates their preservation and long-term storage. These preserved tissue sections can be utilized for future research studies, retrospective analysis, and validation of findings. The availability of well-preserved sectioned tissues enhances collaborative research and enables the sharing of valuable resources among pathologists and researchers.