Biological Sample Segmentation for Automated 3D Histology
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Solution Overview
Problem
The generation of thin tissue sections for histological analysis is a manual, time- and labor-intensive process requiring expensive equipment and skilled personnel, limiting the ability to analyze biopsies efficiently and effectively, as each section can only be analyzed slice by slice and requires delicate handling that is difficult to automate.
Innovation Solution
A method involving dividing biological samples into sample parts with a sphericity of at least 0.4 and a volume of 1000 μm^3 to 27 mm^3, embedding these parts in discrete entities such as hydrogel beads, and imaging them to enable efficient three-dimensional imaging and improved handling, staining, and labeling, allowing for automated processing and analysis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If thin tissue sections are generated using traditional microtome methods, then histological analysis can be performed, but the process becomes manual, time-consuming, and labor-intensive requiring expensive equipment and skilled personnel
Solution Approach 1:
The biological sample is divided into multiple thin tissue sections automatically by the microtome, transforming a manual single-section process into an automated multi-section production system. The segmentation principle enables simultaneous generation of multiple sections from one sample block, dramatically increasing productivity while maintaining analysis precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual mechanical sectioning operations with an automated microtome system that uses precise mechanical controls and computerized positioning. This substitution eliminates the need for skilled manual operation while maintaining or improving section quality, thereby increasing productivity without sacrificing measurement precision.
2Measurement precision
If thin tissue sections are prepared manually, then detailed histological analysis is possible, but delicate handling is required which is difficult to automate
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an intermediary water bath or mounting medium system that receives sections directly from the microtome blade. This intermediary mechanism protects delicate sections during transfer, eliminating the need for manual handling while preserving section integrity and enabling full automation of the sectioning and mounting process.
Solution Approach 2:
Manual delicate handling operations are replaced with automated mechanical transfer systems including robotic arms, conveyor belts, or fluid-based transport mechanisms. These systems maintain gentle handling conditions through controlled motion and support structures, enabling automation while preserving the quality of thin tissue sections.
3Measurement precision
If traditional sectioning methods are used, then tissue sections can be analyzed, but each biopsy can only be analyzed slice by slice limiting comprehensive analysis
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple tissue sections are merged onto a single substrate or processed together in a unified workflow. This merging allows simultaneous analysis of multiple sections from one biopsy, reducing total analysis time while maintaining the precision of individual section examination through standardized processing protocols.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements continuous processing where sections are generated, stained, and analyzed in an uninterrupted sequence without manual intervention between steps. This continuous workflow eliminates idle time between operations while maintaining analysis quality through consistent environmental controls and automated protocol execution.
Data Source
AI summary
A method for imaging a biological sample includes the steps of dividing the biological sample into a plurality of sample parts, wherein each sample part has a sphericity of at least 0.4 and has a volume in the range of 1000 μm3 to 27 mm3; embedding each of at least some of the plurality of sample parts into a discrete entity; and imaging the embedded sample parts.