Accelerated Histological Tissue Processing Protocol
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional histology processing protocols are inefficient due to difficulties in eliminating heat and increasing the rate of fluid perfusion, leading to prolonged processing times and potential damage to tissue samples.
Innovation Solution
An accelerated tissue processing protocol that involves contacting tissue samples with neutral-buffered formalin, ethanol, xylene, and paraffin under controlled temperature and pressure conditions, with agitation to enhance perfusion and reduce processing time, while maintaining compatibility with standard reagents and equipment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of time
If conventional histology processing protocols are used, then tissue processing can be performed, but processing time is prolonged and heat cannot be effectively eliminated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies parameter changes by modifying temperature profiles (using controlled heating phases followed by cooling), pressure differentials (vacuum and pressure cycles), and reagent concentrations to accelerate the processing steps. These parameter modifications enable faster permeation of reagents through tissue while controlling heat generation and elimination.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs periodic action through cyclic application of vacuum and pressure, alternating immersion in different reagents (formalin, ethanol, xylene, paraffin), and rhythmic agitation. This periodic processing accelerates reagent penetration and eliminates heat more effectively than continuous static processing.
2Productivity
If conventional processing protocols are used, then standard reagents can be applied, but the rate of fluid perfusion is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes pneumatic and hydraulic principles by applying vacuum pressure to draw reagents into tissue, using pressure differentials to force reagent penetration, and employing fluid circulation systems with controlled flow rates. These mechanisms dramatically increase fluid perfusion rates while maintaining tissue integrity through controlled pressure application.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies dynamics through dynamic adjustment of processing parameters including variable agitation speeds, changing pressure differentials during reagent immersion, and adaptive temperature control. This dynamic processing optimizes fluid perfusion rates at each stage while preserving tissue structure.
3Productivity
If heat is applied in conventional protocols, then processing can proceed, but tissue integrity and quality are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The patent exploits phase transitions of reagents and processing media, utilizing temperature-dependent changes in reagent viscosity, phase changes during vacuum/pressure cycles, and controlled freezing-thawing sequences to enhance reagent penetration without relying on sustained high temperatures that would damage tissue.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potentially harmful effect of heat generation during processing into a beneficial cycle by using controlled heating followed by active cooling phases. The heat generated during certain processing steps is deliberately eliminated in subsequent steps to prevent tissue damage while maintaining processing efficiency.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The protocol significantly reduces processing time by up to 67% compared to traditional methods, effectively eliminating excess heat to preserve tissue integrity and quality, making it suitable for clinical and research applications.
Implementation Method 1
contacting the tissue sample with neutral-buffered formalin (NBF) at a temperature of from about 18° C. to about 27° C., optionally, under pressure/vacuum (P/V) of from −70 kPa(g) to 0 kPa(g)
Implementation Method 2
with agitation, and (i)(b) removing the NBF from the tissue sample
Data Source
AI summary
An accelerated tissue processing protocol has been developed for processing tissue types, including breast, uterine, and gastrointestinal samples for histology. The accelerated tissue processing protocol is in a format common in histology, and compatible with commercially available tissue processors. The system unique is that through a novel series of alcohol grading and time, the process is more efficient and requires less heat.