Histochemical
Research and Development
PRECOS
carries out a complete range of histochemical
research and development that can be offered
as a stand-alone activity or in support of
a wider programme.
In
addition, PRECOS can assist in the development
of specialised histochemical techniques tailored
to meet specific requirements.
Quantitative Computer
Aided Image Analysis
To aid interpretation, custom
image analysis programs have been designed
by PRECOS scientists on QWin image analysis
software (Leica Microsystems, UK) to minimise
observer subjectivity and provide robust,
quantifiable data. This advanced technology
can be applied in the areas of:
Angiogenesis
- The Human Angiokit
System (TCS Cellworks):
PRECOS offers expertise in short term compound
testing and evaluation using human umbilical
vein endothelial cells (HUVEC). End-point
analysis is carried out on CD31-stained
HUVEC.
- Microvessel Density
Counting: CD31 labelled endothelial
cell sprouts and vessels are used to quantify
solid tumour xenograft angiogenesis.
Assessment
of Proliferation and Cell Death
- Proliferation:
Xenograft proliferation, evaluated by measuring
incorporation of the thymidine analogue
bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) into cell DNA during
S-phase is a rapid and effective method
for creating a 'snapshot' of proliferation.
- Apoptosis:
End-point apoptosis can be assessed in fresh,
snap-frozen or fixed tissue, fresh fixed
cells or in archival systems by fragment
end labelling.
- Necrosis:
Evaluation of necrotic cell death in haematoxylin
and eosin counterstained paraffin sections.
Sections may be taken at multiple depths
through the test tissue to improve data
analysis.
Histology
- Microscopic Detection
of Tumour Burden:
By haematoxylin and eosin counterstaining.
- Custom Paraffin
Tissue Microarrays: For rapid,
comprehensive comparative immunohistochemical
analysis in up to 400 tissue samples on
a standard sized paraffin specimen block.
- Custom Staining
and Microscopy: PRECOS offers a
full immunohistochemistry service for all
commercially available antibodies and further
characterisation of key proteins identified
using high sensitivity Western blotting
techniques.
