Cutting-edge precision profiling of specific cell populations using a Laser Capture Microdissection (LCM) system

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Laser capture microdissection (LCM) is a method that allows specific populations of cells to be visually identified on a microscope and then cut out with a laser and collected for analysis. There are a wide variety of different applications for the system, for example it could be used to collect a particular cell type in the brain that is affected by disease, and then compare it to unaffected cells that are collected into a different container. The system also can be useful for comparing different regions, for example to isolate a particular structure in the lungs, or to collect a tumour sample and then compare it to neighbouring healthy cells. A wide variety of different sample types can be studied with this microscope, including fresh biopsies, frozen or fixed autopsies, or even cells grown in a dish. The LCM we plan to purchase is the Leica LMD6, which is contact and therefore contamination free, as a laser is used for cutting and the sample is then collected via gravity. The laser in the system is fast, accurate, maintenance-free, long-life and is adjustable by the user so that can collect many different types of samples. One exciting feature of the LMD6 system is that it has an Auto Detection Mode (ADM), where the user draws around the cells of interest on the screen, and then the software uses this as a template to cut across the rest of the sample, which saves a lot of time and means more sample can be collected. This would be the only LCM in the South West with automated software, meaning it can attract usage from external users as well as the large number of researchers at the University of Exeter who already plan to use the machine. At the University of Exeter, we currently have 17 group leaders, representing in total 46 researchers, who plan to use the system when installed. This includes researchers interested in lots of areas of human health and disease, including brain disorders, lung disease, diabetes, infection, cancer, development and ageing. The LCM will be located in a state-of-the-art building, which is a partnership between the University of Exeter and the Royal Devon and Exeter (RD&E) NHS Trust campus. As this building is home to a Clinical Research Facility (CRF) and a BioResource Centre, there is likely to also be interest in the equipment from clinical teams in the NHS.