Construction of High-Density Tissue Microarrays at Low Cost by Using Self-Made Manual Microarray Kits and Recipient Paraffin Blocks.
- Author:
Chang Hwan CHOI
1
;
Kyu Ho KIM
;
Ju Young SONG
;
Suk Jin CHOI
;
Lucia KIM
;
In Suh PARK
;
Jee Young HAN
;
Joon Mee KIM
;
Young Chae CHU
Author Information
1. Department of Pathology, Inha University Hospital, Inha University College of Medicine, Incheon, Korea. sukjinchoi007@gmail.com
- Publication Type:Original Article
- Keywords:
Tissue array analysis;
Paraffin;
Pathology;
Research
- MeSH:
Biopsy;
Bone Marrow;
Catheters;
Hand;
Ink;
Mandrillus;
Needles;
Paraffin;
Skin;
Tissue Array Analysis
- From:Korean Journal of Pathology
2012;46(6):562-568
- CountryRepublic of Korea
- Language:English
-
Abstract:
BACKGROUND: Advances of tissue microarray (TMA) technology have enabled simultaneous in situ analysis of biomarker expression in a large number of archived pathology specimens. However, the relatively high cost of TMA construction may hamper many researchers from using this essential tool of modern pathology research. We discuss methods for making TMA kits and recipient blocks for manual construction of high-density TMAs at low cost. METHODS: Ordinary cannula piercing needles, hypodermic needles, bone marrow biopsy needles, metallic ink cartridges of ballpoint pens, and disposable skin biopsy punches were used to construct self-made manual TMA kits. The recipient blocks were manufactured by boring holes in the conventional bare paraffin blocks. A mini electric hand drill and a microcompound table assembled on a drill stand were used to maximize the capacity of the recipient blocks. RESULTS: By using TMA kits made from cannula piercing needles (16- and 18-gauge), it was possible to construct TMAs with 1 mmx140 cores, 0.6 mmx320 cores, 2 mmx70 cores, 3 mmx35 cores, and 5 mmx12 cores. The capacity of the recipient blocks could be dramatically increased by drilling holes. CONCLUSIONS: Construction of TMAs using self-made TMA kits is an inexpensive alternative to construction of TMAs using commercial devices.
