The sequencing of the human genome and the development of high-throughput gene expression technologies such as DNA microarrays have led to the discovery of hundreds or thousands of genes with a potential role in neoplastic transformation. Determining whether these genes are clinically relevant has been challenging due, in part, to limited availability of tissue samples necessary to validate these genes. The development of tissue microarray (TMA) technology has enabled the placement of hundreds of minute tissue samples on a single tissue block, thus conserving precious material. In addition, TMAs have increased throughput of in situ analysis because large numbers of tissue samples can be evaluated in a single experiment.

Access to this technology and these tissue-based resources is key to advancement of cancer research at DF/HCC. The mission of the Tissue Microarray and Imaging Core is to generate tissue microarrays by allowing placement of up to 480 0.6 mm diameter tissue samples into a single standard tissue block, allowing hundreds of tumors and samples to be evaluated on a single slide.

The Tissue Microarray and Imaging Core is dedicated to the construction and evaluation of high-quality tissue microarrays for cancer research. Core services include construction of standard and custom tissue microarrays, preparation of slides, immunofluorescent staining, image acquisition & analysis by AQUA, high-throughput isolation of DNA and RNA from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue cores, as well as consultative services.