Tissue Sample Matrix for Shrinkage-Matched Orientation Tracking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing tissue sample processing methods face challenges in maintaining the orientation and integrity of tissue samples during pathological processing, leading to difficulties in accurately identifying and locating abnormal tissues like cancerous cells due to varying shrinkage rates and loss of positional information.
Innovation Solution
The use of tissue sample-receiving matrices with sectionable codes and measurement marks, made of proteins and lipids, that match the shrinkage rate of specific tissue types, along with a centralized network system for image processing and data management, ensures precise identification and tracking of tissue samples throughout the pathological process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Manufacturing precision
If conventional tissue sample processing is used, then the tissue sample can be processed through standard histopathological procedures, but the tissue sample loses its original orientation and positional information due to varying shrinkage rates
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix is designed with specific physical and chemical parameters (composition, porosity, shrinkage characteristics) that match the tissue sample's properties. This parameter matching ensures that the matrix and tissue sample shrink at the same rate during processing, maintaining the tissue's original orientation and positional information throughout the histopathological procedure.
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix acts as an intermediary carrier between the tissue sample and the processing system. It provides a stable framework that supports the tissue sample during processing while preserving its spatial relationships and orientation, effectively mediating between the tissue and the mechanical/chemical processing forces.
2Productivity
If manual labeling and tracking of tissue samples is used, then the process can be performed with simple equipment, but the efficiency and accuracy of histopathological examinations are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix incorporates a unique identifier (such as a barcode, RFID tag, or other detectable feature) that creates a digital copy of the tissue sample's identity and positional information. This identifier can be read and tracked through the entire processing workflow, eliminating the need for manual labeling and enabling automated tracking systems to maintain accurate records without increasing operational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The matrix with its integrated identifier performs the tracking and identification functions automatically throughout the processing workflow. The system self-identifies and self-tracks the tissue sample through various processing stages, eliminating the need for manual intervention in labeling and tracking operations, thereby improving efficiency without requiring complex manual procedures.
3Measurement precision
If the matrix material does not match the tissue shrinkage rate, then the matrix can be manufactured with standard materials, but the tissue sample's positional information is lost during processing
Solution Approach 1:
The matrix material is specifically selected or formulated with physical parameters (shrinkage coefficient, elastic modulus, porosity) that match the tissue sample's properties. This parameter matching ensures that during histopathological processing, the matrix and tissue sample undergo identical dimensional changes, preserving the tissue's original position and orientation while remaining manufacturable using standard material science principles.
Data Source
AI summary
Apparatuses for processing tissue samples, including a matrix configured to receive and process multiple tissue samples. The matrix may include a plurality of carriers, each carrier configured to receive a respective tissue sample, the carriers formed of a tunable material including one or more proteins and one or more lipids. The matrix may also include a support member configured to hold the plurality of carriers, the support member formed of the tunable material and including a sectionable code configured to uniquely identify the matrix.