Laser capture microscopy

Abstract

Human tissues are composed of complex admixtures of different cell types and their biologically meaningful analysis necessitates the procurement of pure samples of the cells of interest. Many approaches have been used in attempts to overcome this difficulty, including a variety of microdissection methods. This review concerns a recent advance in microdissection techniques, namely laser capture microdissection (LCM). The principle underlying this technique is outlined, and practical issues pertaining to LCM are considered. In addition, the literature relating to LCM is reviewed, with examples of research applications of this technique being outlined.

Figure 1

The principle of laser capture microdissection. The laser beam transiently melts the thermoplastic film coating the cap, causing the film to adhere to the chosen cells. On removal of the cap from the slide, the chosen tissue remains adherent to the cap.

Figure 2

Frozen section of normal colon, stained with haematoxylin and eosin. (A) Before microdissection and (B) after microdissection; (C) captured tissue adherent to the cap.