Histopathology Platform of the Research Institute of the MUHC

McGill University Health Centre, Montréal, Québec
What the facility does

Accelerates disease research via specimen processing, in order to visualize biological structures and molecules within tissues

Areas of expertise

The Histopathology Platform is well-appointed, with state-of-the-art automated instruments that provide access to technologies that go beyond standard histological evaluations. In addition to offering routine processing, embedding, sectioning and staining of paraffin and frozen tissues, the facility houses a fully automated immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in situ hybridization (ISH) system enabling simultaneous protocols and increased efficiency. The platform is also equipped with a Laser Capture Microdissection (LCM) system for the selective isolation of small number of cells from heterogeneous tissues and an automated digital slide scanning and image analysis system. Experienced personnel are available to provide standard services, training on facility instruments, technical assistance and consultation.

Research services

Tissue processing and embedding, OCT embedding for frozen tissues, tissue sectioning and straining, fully automated immunohistochemistry, fully automated in situ hybridization, laser capture microdissection, whole slide digital scanning, training, consultation, protocol development, antibody optimization, extended assistance, independent use of instruments

Sectors of application
  • Life sciences, pharmaceuticals and medical equipment
EquipmentFunction
Leica ASP300S tissue processorRoutine and research histopathology. Proven technology, high reliability with intuitive user interface touch screen.
Leica  EG1150 H paraffin embedding stationA cold plate and a heated paraffin dispensing module.
Ventana DISCOVERY ULTRA automated slide preparation systemReproducible automated immunohistochemistry (IHC) and in situ hybridization (ISH). Runs 30 independent protocols
Arcturus XT ™ Laser Capture Microdissection SystemCombines Infrared (IR) laser capture and ultra violet (UV) laser cutting usable on any slide type or preparation.
Leica Ariol SL200 digital pathology slide scannerDigital whole slide scanning system. System is based on the Leica DM6000 microscope.
Leica CV5030 ST5020 automated multistainer and coverslipperIntegrated system produces consistent, high-quality results for both routine and special stains. Simultaneous protocols.
Leica RM 2125RTS microtomePrecision cutting of high-quality sections.
Leica RM2235 microtomePrecision cutting of high-quality sections.
Leica CM3050 S Research CryostatFor the generation of high-quality frozen tissue sections.
ThermoFisher Cryostat Microm HM550For the generation of high-quality frozen tissue sections.
Leica CM1950 CryostatFor the generation of high-quality frozen tissue sections.
  • McGill University
  • Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CR CHUM)