Pathology Research Shared Resource

Mayo Clinic Rochester, Rochester MN

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

PATHOLOGY RESEARCH SHARED RESOURCE: ABSTRACT The Pathology Research Shared Resource (PATHSR) provides histological and related tissue-based services across the enterprise to researchers at Mayo Clinic in Rochester (MCR), Mayo Clinic in Arizona (MCA), and Mayo Clinic in Florida (MCF). The goal of PATHSR is to facilitate tissue-based science by managing the procurement of fresh, frozen, and fixed clinical and animal tissues. This includes preanalytical processing and analytical functions, such as immunohistochemistry (IHC) and assisting with morphological interpretation, all within a College of American Pathologists (CAP)-accredited quality system. PATHSR is overseen by practicing surgical pathologists and dedicated administrators. The core is an essential resource for MCCCC investigators. The quality of tissue specimens and their preparation are important for understanding cancer biology and exploring possible therapeutic approaches. This involves investigations of molecular, genomic, and immunologic expressions and their spatial distributions. Three Specific Aims support this goal: Aim 1: To prepare frozen and formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue blocks for tissue microarrays and sectioning for microscopy, immunohistochemistry, multiplexed imaging, and nucleic acid and protein extraction. Aim 2: To support spatial molecular studies through optimization of protocols for IHC, multiplexed imaging, and in situ hybridization; automation of staining; and assistance with morphologic interpretation. Aim 3: To support digital image analysis with brightfield and fluorescent scanning, digital image management, assistance with morphologic interpretation and annotation, and artificial intelligence (AI)–powered analysis. PATHSR provides services at MCR, MCA, and MCF to support tissue-based research starting with facilitating the collection of fresh, frozen, and fixed tissues in the operating and autopsy suites. FFPE and frozen tissues are cut for hematoxylin and eosin staining; immunostaining; laser-capture microdissection; and DNA, RNA, and protein isolation. PATHSR optimizes staining protocols for antibodies and performs automated IHC, immunofluorescence, and RNA in situ hybridization. Tissue microarrays (TMAs) can be constructed with cores of 0.6-, 1.0-, or 2.0-mm diameter. TMAs can be digitally scanned, with the images made available for web-based viewing. Whole-slide scanning for brightfield and fluorescence microscopy is available with web-based applications for viewing images. Cytotechnologist services are available to assist with block selection for studies and TMAs, scoring IHC stains and TMAs, optimizing analysis algorithms, annotating slides and images, and selecting regions of interest. MCCCC members provide 41% of PATHSR’s revenue, and PATHSR has supported 128 publications authored by Cancer Center members, including 34 in journals with impact factors >10. Member Utilization 2019-2023: 228 Total (14 CPCS, 25 REDI, 28 CGSM, 34 CII, 50 NTTM, 77 ACTS) Publication by Members: 128, 34 with Impact Factor >10