Theory of LCMLCM utilizes an infrared laser integrated into a standard microscope. A transparent cap is attached to a thermoplastic transparent membrane which lies directly on the surface of a routinely prepared tissue section on a glass slide. The investigator examines the tissue section microscopically and activates the laser when the desired cells underlie the target. This in turn activates the membrane with subsequent binding and procurement of the cells of interest (see Figures 1 A and B below). The laser pulse is very brief (approximately 5 msec) and the membrane is activated at 90°C, thus the tissue experiences only a very brief thermal transient as the heat generated from the membrane is rapidly dissipated.

LCM allows for visualization and image capturing of tissue as it is microdissected, including images of the tissue before and after microdissection. This is critical in maintaining an accurate record of each dissection and correlating histopathology with subsequent molecular results.

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MethodOnce the tissue has been properly processed, sectioned and stained, it is ready for microdissection. The tissue is visualized under the microscope and an initial road map image as well as pre-dissection, post-dissection, and cap images are taken to document the histology, the steps of microdissection, and the microdissected cells, respectively. The laser beam size may be adjusted from 7.5 µm to 30 µm to allow microdissection of either groups of cells or single cells depending on the needs of the investigator.

TIPS:

• It is essential that there are no irregularities in the tissue surface in or near the area to be microdissected. Wrinkles will elevate the LCM cap away from the tissue surface and decrease the membrane contact during laser activation.
• Occasionally there are subtle irregularities on the tissue surface (under the LCM cap) that cannot be visually appreciated; however, these can be noted by a decrease in the laser activation spot size. This can be partially or completely alleviated by adding an extra weight to the cap support arm, or temporarily increasing the laser power.
• Use an adhesive pad after microdissection to remove cells that may have attached non-specifically to the LCM cap. Place the cap on the adhesive pad three separate times and then view it microscopically to ensure all of the non-specific material has been removed.
• A cap-alone control is recommended for each experiment to ensure that non-specific transfer is not occurring during microdissection. This is best performed by placing an LCM cap on the tissue section being dissected and aiming and firing the laser at regions where there are no cells or structures present, e.g., lumens of large vessels, cystic structures, etc. (alternatively one can place a portion of the LCM cap "off" the tissue and target this region). The cap should be processed through the buffer and analysis methodology being utilized in the study and serves as a negative control.

Research ExamplesFigure 2 below shows microdissection of normal bronchiolar epithelium, and Figure3 below shows microdissection of a single bronchioalveolar carcinoma cell. Click on each diagram for an enlarged view.