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.