Department Anatomy

Histology Facilities and services

In the histology lab of the department of Anatomy tissue is prepared for qualitative and quantitative analysis. Most tissue is collected from experimental animal studies. These studies are performed at the central animal laboratory of Radboud University after approval of the animal experimental committee.

Human tissue

In addition, research is carried out on human tissue, this is in collaboration with the clinic (department of Neurology, department of Pathology, department of Orthodontics and Oral Biology). Using histological techniques, we aim to demonstrate differences in morphology or in amount and/or location of specific proteins in these tissues. In this way, we hope to get more insight in several physiological processes.

Conservation

For the conservation of the experimental animal tissue, we use the perfusion technique. In order to be able to do histology, the fixed tissue is cut in sections. Depending on the histological technique, we use a rotation microtome, sliding microtome, cryostat, vibrating blade microtome and/or an utramicrotome to slice the tissue. Besides the standard staining techniques, specific immunohistochemical stainings and in situ hybridisation techniques are performed in our lab.

Analysis

By comparing the stained sections of different individuals with each other, differences between experimental groups can be elucidated. For the analysis, a computerized image analysis system is used (Neurolucida or Stereo Investigator, MicroBrightField). For the presentation of the results, equipment is available to make (digital) macro-and microphotographs.