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  4. Precision Deparaffinization for Sample Analysis and Preservation

Precision Deparaffinization for Sample Analysis and Preservation

Enables selective deparaffinization of tissue samples to enhance analytical precision and maintain bulk sample integrity.

Cross-section of tissue sample
Image is for illustrative purposes. Source: AFIP, Wikimedia, CC0

Background

Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples are indispensable for various medical and research applications. However, traditional deparaffinization methods are time-consuming and prone to analyte loss, posing challenges for accurate analysis. This novel technology simplifies the process by introducing a comprehensive system for precise and rapid deparaffinization, preserving sample integrity while enabling efficient analysis.

Technology Overview

The precision deparaffinization system comprises a solvent reservoir, a heater, a probe, a vacuum, a melted paraffin reservoir, and a sophisticated control system. This stand-alone technology facilitates selective melting of paraffin from tissue samples, enabling spot deparaffinization without compromising sample integrity.

The system utilizes a copper thermal jacket integrated with a probe, providing precise temperature control for localized paraffin melting. With a heating element and thermometer, the system ensures accurate and efficient deparaffinization, requiring minimal solvent usage compared to conventional methods. Additionally, the vacuum component facilitates solvent removal, optimizing the deparaffinization process.

Deparaffinization technology in use
Figure 1 - Technology in action 

 

Melanoma sample with mass spectra from different regions of the sample
Melanoma sample with mass spectra from different regions of the sample

Heatmap of sample overlaid with the optical image showing the neoplastic region in orange and non鈥憂eoplastic in blue.
Figure 3 - Heatmap of sample overlaid with the optical image showing the neoplastic region in orange and non鈥憂eoplastic in blue. Principal component analysis and K-means clustering is shown to differentiate the pixels in the heatmap. The averaged spectrum for each cluster is shown with the same color for each cluster. 

 

Benefits

  • Precise Deparaffinization: The system enables localized deparaffinization of tissue samples, facilitating accurate spot analysis.
  • Efficient Sample Preservation: By selectively melting the paraffin only where needed, the technology preserves the bulk of the sample for subsequent analyses or histological examinations.
  • Minimal Solvent Usage: The system significantly reduces solvent usage, addressing environmental and safety concerns associated with traditional deparaffinization methods.
  • Automated Control: With an advanced control system, the technology offers automated and precise temperature control, ensuring reproducible deparaffinization results.
  • Integration Flexibility: While compatible with mass spectrometry platforms, the system can also function as a stand-alone solution, providing versatility in laboratory setups.

Applications

  • Clinical Diagnostics: Enhances the speed and accuracy of identifying biomarkers and mutations in FFPE tissue samples, facilitating timely clinical decision-making.
  • Cancer Research: Accelerates the identification of cancer biomarkers and molecular signatures, contributing to personalized medicine and targeted therapies.
  • Forensic Analysis: Suitable for the analysis of preserved tissue samples from crime scenes, aiding in the identification of crucial forensic markers.
  • Histological Studies: Facilitates selective deparaffinization for comprehensive histopathological assessments, preserving tissue architecture and cellular details.

Opportunity

Queen鈥檚 University is seeking partnerships and collaborations to further validate and refine our precision deparaffinization system. We welcome opportunities for research collaborations, technology integration, commercialization partnerships, and investment to advance this transformative solution in tissue analysis.

Patents

  • 63/604,627 -Methods and Devices for Preparing and Analyzing Embedded Tissues

IP Status

Provisional patent

Seeking

  • Commercial partner
  • Licensing
  • Seeking investment
  • Development partner

Posted

March 4, 2024