Histology Research Service
We manage the complete histological workflow for your research. Our team processes a diverse range of specimen types across multiple species—from routine soft tissues to delicate microscopic specimens such as mosquitoes, cell lines, and organoids, as well as large tissue resections.
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Core Service Menu
- Tissue Processing & Embedding: Automated processing to Formalin-Fixed Paraffin-Embedded (FFPE) blocks, complete with secure block archiving until you are ready to section.
- Microtomy & Sectioning: Preparation of unstained slides, serial sections, multiple sections per slide, and paraffin scrolls for downstream DNA/RNA extraction (PCR). We also section client-provided FFPE blocks.
- Routine & Special Staining: Standardised, high-throughput Haematoxylin & Eosin (H&E) alongside an extensive menu of routine and complex tinctorial special stains. Staining is also available for pre-cut slides sectioned at external facilities.
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC) & Immunofluorescence (IF): Fully automated staining using an extensive research and diagnostic antibody library. We provide full protocol optimisation for novel targets, including antibody titration and tailored antigen retrieval across diverse species.
- Digital Whole Slide Scanning (WSI): High-resolution brightfield and multi-channel fluorescence scanning at 20× and 40× magnification. High numerical aperture optics ensure exceptional resolution at 20× for standard research workflows. Scans are provided in native ZEISS .czi format (fully compatible with QuPath and Fiji/ImageJ) or converted to .svs for Aperio ImageScope. Cloud-based hosting and viewing are available via the ZEISS Arivis Hub.
- Pathology Interpretation Support: Board-certified veterinary pathologist consultation and slide evaluation can be integrated into your study design, subject to project scope and diagnostic capacity.
- Sample Decalcification: We routinely process bone and calcified specimens using formic acid, Surgipath, or EDTA depending on downstream assay requirements.
- Custom Embedding: Multiple specimens can be oriented and embedded within a single paraffin block where appropriate to maximise efficiency.
- Fixation Guidelines: For optimal morphology and antigen preservation, we recommend fixing fresh tissue in 10% neutral buffered formalin (NBF) for a minimum of 24 hours at room temperature, before transferring to 70% ethanol or PBS for long-term storage and transit.
Technical Capabilities & Equipment
Our facility utilizes automated, research-grade instrumentation to guarantee reproducibility, rapid turnaround, and full chain-of-custody tracking for all specimens.
Digital Whole Slide Scanning
- ZEISS Axioscan 7 Slide Scanner
- Capacity & Flexibility: High-speed automated batch scanning of up to 100 standard slides or double-wide (mega) slides (52 × 76 mm).
- High-Resolution Optics: High numerical aperture objectives (20×/0.8 and 40×/0.95) capturing crisp cellular morphology without field distortion.
- Multi-Channel Fluorescence: Clean optical separation of fluorophores including DAPI, FITC, TRITC, mCherry, Cy5, and Cy7. Transfer of Intensity Equation (TIE) gentle autofocus protects sensitive samples from photobleaching.
- Specialised Polarisation Contrast: Single-snap circular polarisation for evaluating collagen architecture, amyloid plaques, and Congo red birefringence.
- Multi-Magnification Tissue Mapping: Automated low-magnification whole-tissue mapping followed by targeted high-resolution acquisition of regions of interest (ROIs).
Automated IHC, IF, and In Situ Hybridisation
- Leica BOND RX Staining System
- Advanced Multiplexing: Validated for chromogenic and fluorescent multiplex panels, resolving up to six discrete targets on a single tissue section.
- Tissue Integrity: Proprietary Covertile technology ensures uniform, gentle reagent dispersion that preserves fragile tissue morphology.
- Assay Flexibility: Fully open protocol configuration optimised for single/dual IHC, In Situ Hybridisation (ISH), FISH, and RNAscope® assays.
- Agilent Dako Autostainer Link 48
- High Throughput: Processes up to 48 slides in under three hours for rapid batch turnaround.
- Flexible Detection: Validated for multiple chromogenic detection systems, including standard DAB and high-contrast Magenta.
Tissue Processing & Sectioning
- Leica HistoCore PEGASUS Dual Retort Tissue Processor: Features two independent retorts running distinct protocols simultaneously (e.g., rapid biopsy runs alongside extended cycles for dense/fatty tissues). Accommodates up to 400 cassettes simultaneously with smart reagent tracking and digital run logs.
- Epredia Excelsior AS Tissue Processor: Utilises circular reagent agitation and pre-heated reagents (up to 35°C) to minimise thermal shock and ensure consistent wax infiltration.
- Epredia HM 340E Rotary Microtome: Precision micrometer feed mechanism provides mechanical stability for cutting uniform, defect-free sections from standard, dense, or brittle paraffin blocks.
Automated Staining, Coverslipping, and Sample Tracking
- Epredia Gemini AS Stainer & ClearVue Coverslipper: Closed-loop, standardised H&E and special staining coupled with automated mountant dispensing for optically clear, bubble-free slides optimized for digital scanning.
- Epredia PrintMate AS & SlideMate Pro: Indelible, chemical-resistant printing for cassettes and slides featuring human-readable text and 2D data matrix barcodes, ensuring complete sample traceability and long-term archive integrity.
Project Quotes & Turnaround Times
Every study receives a transparent, itemised quote tailored to its specific requirements. Because we operate an active diagnostic and research facility, project turnaround times vary depending on batch size, staining complexity, and current laboratory workload. We work closely with you to establish realistic milestones and clear timelines from the outset.
Get in Touch: To discuss your study design, request technical advice, or receive a formal quote, email our team at vet-histology@glasgow.ac.uk.
Explore research supported by our facility on our Research Publications Page, which will be available to view soon.