Laser Capture Microdissection (LCM)

One of the main challenges in obtaining significant results in proteomic studies is the issue of specificity and purity of the sample under investigation. Especially in heterogeneous tissues this can limit the application of proteomic methodologies. However, recently there have been new techniques such as Laser Capture Microdissection (LCM) developed which, at some extent, have helped scientists to overcome this challenge. LCM is a state-of-the-art technology for isolating pure cell populations from a heterogeneous tissue specimen. It can precisely target and capture the cells of interest for a wide range of downstream assays including genomic and proteomic studies. The selected specimen is separated with a software-controlled laser beam and transported by a laser pulse into a collection device. This procedure ensures that no unwanted elements are collected. The process is completely contact- and contamination-free and ensures the best possible preservation of the cells of interest.
In our current translational study, we are using the LCM technique to isolate and capture the cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC) cell population and their normal counterparts from the stained tissue section slides. During the isolation process, we are trying to do our best to avoid unwanted molecules such as infiltrates, collagen and keratin in order to get the best result possible. The desired cell population is captured on special sticky caps followed by transferring them to a sterile microfuge tube for proteomic processing. More to come…
By Ali Azimi