Cutting-edge precision profiling of specific cell populations using a Laser Capture Microdissection (LCM) system

Laser capture microdissection (LCM) is a method that allows specific populations of cells to be visually identified on a microscope and then cut out with a laser and collected for analysis. There are a wide variety of different applications for the system, for example it could be used to collect a particular cell type in the brain that is affected by disease, and then compare it to unaffected cells that are collected into a different container. The system also can be useful for comparing different regions, for example to isolate a particular structure in the lungs, or to collect a tumour sample and then compare it to neighbouring healthy cells. A wide variety of different sample types can be studied with this microscope, including fresh biopsies, frozen or fixed autopsies, or even cells grown in a dish. The LCM we plan to purchase is the Leica LMD6, which is contact and therefore contamination free, as a laser is used for cutting and the sample is then collected via gravity. The laser in the system is fast, accurate, maintenance-free, long-life and is adjustable by the user so that can collect many different types of samples. One exciting feature of the LMD6 system is that it has an Auto Detection Mode (ADM), where the user draws around the cells of interest on the screen, and then the software uses this as a template to cut across the rest of the sample, which saves a lot of time and means more sample can be collected. This would be the only LCM in the South West with automated software, meaning it can attract usage from external users as well as the large number of researchers at the University of Exeter who already plan to use the machine. At the University of Exeter, we currently have 17 group leaders, representing in total 46 researchers, who plan to use the system when installed. This includes researchers interested in lots of areas of human health and disease, including brain disorders, lung disease, diabetes, infection, cancer, development and ageing. The LCM will be located in a state-of-the-art building, which is a partnership between the University of Exeter and the Royal Devon and Exeter (RD&E) NHS Trust campus. As this building is home to a Clinical Research Facility (CRF) and a BioResource Centre, there is likely to also be interest in the equipment from clinical teams in the NHS.

Laser capture microdissection (LCM) is a microscope attached to a laser where, following a rapid staining protocol, it is possible to draw around specific cells of interest, or specific areas of a tissue and collect this for downstream analysis. The system has been widely used for studying the molecular profile of specific cells in heterogenous tissues, or for example to compare a region of pathology to healthy neighbouring tissue. The LCM we plan to acquire is the Leica LMD6. It is contact and contamination free as a laser is used for cutting and gravity for collection. The lasers in this system are guided via optics to allow high cutting speed and precision for cutting the correct area. The laser in the system is maintenance-free, long-life and adjustable by the user so that many different types of samples can be collected. The system can be used for many sample types, including frozen, fresh and fixed tissue, as well as live cells in culture that can then be re-cultivated. One exciting feature of the LMD6 system is the Auto Detection Mode, where the user selects cells of interest in the field of view, and then the system uses this as a template to cut across the rest of the sample, which saves considerable processing time. This would be the only LCM in the South West with automated software, meaning it can attract usage from external collaborators as well as internal users. At the University of Exeter, we currently have 17 principal investigators, representing 46 researchers, who plan to use the system. This includes researchers interested in several areas under the MRC's remit, including brain disorders, lung disease, diabetes, infection, cancer, embryogenesis, development and ageing. The LCM will be housed in a state-of-the-art building, which is a partnership between the University and the RD&E NHS Trust and home to a Clinical Research Facility and BioResource Centre, meaning that there is likely to be interest in the equipment from clinical teams in the NHS.