Mass Spectroscopic Imaging in the analysis of Pathology Samples
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A pilot study to investigate the application of mass spectroscopic imaging to analysis of the cytological tissue sample and its use in the identificaton cells and non-cellular substances within the sample.
IRAS ID
157199
Contact name
Stephen D J Holwill
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
South West Pathology Services
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
We aim to develop the technique of mass spectroscopic imaging (MSI)for use in the analysis of the histological and cytological sample. In this pilot study we aim to compare the results of mass spectroscopic imaging with standard cytological analysis.
Current pathology practice relies heavily on the morphology of a sample, as seen under the microscope, to identify the different cellular and non-cellular components.
Over the past decade or so, a new technique has evolved which uses the mass spectrometer to identify tissue components which have been desorbed (or separated) from the sample with a laser. The particular value of trying to use this method is that it may be able to:
1. identify cell types in the sample, and to identify subtypes which we cannot distinguish at present with routine histology and immunohistochemical tests.
2. be able to characterise the extracellular environment to a degree greater than the limited ability we have with histochemical stains.
3. reliably identify the many mediators and cell:cell and cell:matrix receptors / ligands which provide for communication and effector pathways within the pathological environment.
4. identify drugs or drug components (drugs are a common cause of skin rashes) which may lie in the extra or intracellular environment.
5. provide a rapid assessment of small volume samples and provide a faster and more accurate characterisation of the material.The use of MSI may help take us from a descriptive approach to diagnosis to one where we are able to measure the processes and functions being performed by individual cells in a tissue by creating a chemical profile. The ability to measure these functions will allow us to improve our diagnostic groupings and provide the basis for more appropriate and targeted treatment of disease.
REC name
Wales REC 6
REC reference
14/WA/1178
Date of REC Opinion
1 Oct 2014
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion