Research Histology Laboratory
The Research Histology Lab is supported by the Experimental Radiation Oncology (ERO) and Radiation Oncology (RO) departments. It provides technical support and consultation on histology for all the researchers from ERO and RO, which produces positive outcomes for their research protocols.
The Research Histology Lab performs techniques including, but not limited to:
- Tissue/organoids processing
- Tissue/organoids embedding
- Paraffin blocks sectioning
- OCT frozen blocks sectioning
- HE (hematoxylin and eosin) staining
- PAS (Periodic Acid Schiff) staining
- Oil Red staining
- Masson Trichrome staining
For more information, please email Jie Zhang, M.D.
Instruments and Equipment
Epredia™ Excelsior AS™ tissue processor
The Epredia Excelsior AS tissue processor provides exceptional tissue quality with minimal user interaction. It performs the superb tissue quality and proven reliability you expect, plus a safer, more efficient working environment.
Tissue-Tek® TEC™ tissue embedder
The Tissue-Tek TEC™ tissue embedder has been the Histology Laboratory’s preferred choice in embedding for decades. It is designed to be the ideal tissue embedder for laboratories of any size, and the robust and ergonomic modular system offers a streamlined, adjustable workflow that is both comfortable and simple-to-use for any user.
CryoStar™ NX50 Cryostat
The CryoStar™ NX50 Cryostat is designed completely to deliver optimal sectioning quality, unmatched ergonomics and safety in an energy efficient package. With the NX series, users can deliver high quality results comfortably, safely and efficiently.
Epredia™ SlideMate™ AS Slide Printer
Accurate, efficient labeling workflows are achievable with the SlideMate AS on-demand slide printer.
Zeiss Microscope Axio Imager.A2
More flexibility for more performance: from simple observation and image acquisition to highly complex analyses. There are six different stands available, which allow you to adapt the system exactly to your individual application by providing many different system components.
Leica Microtome
Q & A
What preparations need to be made before submitting the samples?
After harvesting, the samples should be placed in a liquid fixing agent (fixative) such as formaldehyde solution (formalin). Ideally, samples should remain in the fixative for long enough for the fixative to penetrate every part of the tissue. The samples should be fixed for 6 to 24 hours. It depends on the tissue size and kind. Then transfer the samples to 70% ethyl alcohol and get ready to submit. The samples should be submitted in tissue cassettes labeled clearly with special chemical-resistant markers or pencils. Never use Sharpie or typical markers.
How do I place an order?
While preparing samples, please complete the Histology Project Submission Forms 1 and 2 (PI’s signature is needed). Then submit the forms to JZhang27@MDAnderson.org, and we will reach out to discuss the detailsof the order. We suggest you provide a list of your samples since some labels are not clear to recognize.
Do I need to pay for the order?
No. The lab is supported by the Experimental Radiation Oncology (ERO) and Radiation Oncology (RO) departments. Up to now, you don’t have to pay for the order if you are from ERO or RO.
When and where should I drop off my samples?
After you submit the request form, we will discuss the specific timing via email. The histology lab is in the Zayed Building (Z7.4031A). Please drop off the samples on the table outside the door at the appointed time and label your name (or PI’s name) on the container.
When and where will I pick up my samples when my order is done?
You will receive an email once your order is completed. You can pick up your samples from the table beside the door of Zayed Building, Room Z7.4031A. Please check to make sure you are taking your own samples and not taking another by mistake.
What is the standard thickness of a slide section?
- FFPE (formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded) sections: 4μm
- Frozen sections: 4-5μm
Can I provide my own slide box(es)?
Yes, we suggest you provide your own slide box(es) when you drop off the samples.
What kind of slides are used for my project?
We always use plus slides for all the samples. The plus (+) slides are positively charged and coated with an adhesive that allows sections to attach to the slide more effectively.
What is required before I bring my bone samples to the lab?
Your samples must be grossed/cut and separated by the joint. They must be fixed at least 24 hours in 4% paraformaldehyde (PFA) and be decalcified completely before submission.
Can I change my order after it has been submitted?
Yes, you may add or remove new services after submitting if your order has not already been completed. Just email us.
If I drop my samples off in a container, will I get that container back?
Yes, you can get that back when you pick up your samples.
Protocols
Click to open protocol and reagent lists for the following types of staining:
Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining (.docx)