Scientific Publications
Scientific publications and exciting articles where PreciPoint products and solutions were successfully used.
Study Uses PreciPoint Fritz Slide Scanner to Analyze CD55 Expression in SARS-CoV-2 Infected Lungs
In a recent study, the PreciPoint Fritz slide scanner was used to digitize histological slides for the analysis of lung tissue samples from patients infected with SARS-CoV-2. The research focused on investigating the expression of Complement Regulatory Protein CD55 in the infected lungs, as CD55 plays a crucial role in modulating the complement system and protecting cells from immune-mediated damage. By examining CD55\'s distribution and expression patterns, the study aimed to deepen the understanding of its role in the immune response to COVID-19 and its potential involvement in disease severity and progression. These findings from the research offer insights into the immune modulation in COVID-19 and may guide future therapeutic interventions.
Result: The Fritz slide scanner enabled the precise imaging of lung tissue, revealing a notable upregulation of CD55 in SARS-CoV-2-infected regions. This upregulation was predominantly observed in alveolar epithelial cells, suggesting a protective mechanism against complement-mediated injury. The increased expression of CD55 correlated with areas of severe inflammation, highlighting its potential role in mitigating immune damage in COVID-19-infected lungs.
Life | 2024-08-23
O8 Microscope and Scanner Uncovers Critical piRNA Pathway Gene Variants in Male Infertility and Spermatogenic Failure
PreciPoint O8 microscope and scanner was used in a study to investigate the role of piRNA pathway gene variants in male infertility, particularly in spermatogenic failure. The piRNA pathway is critical for maintaining genomic stability in the germline by silencing transposable elements, particularly during spermatogenesis. Dysfunctions in this pathway can lead to transposon de-repression, disrupting normal sperm development and potentially causing infertility. Previous studies have shown that mutations in piRNA-related genes can cause spermatogenic defects in animal models, but the implications for human fertility have been less clear. The study focused on identifying and analyzing biallelic variants in key piRNA pathway genes in a cohort of infertile men, to understand the genetic underpinnings of spermatogenic failure. Through comprehensive gene analysis and phenotype characterization, the study aimed to link specific genetic mutations to piRNA dysfunction, transposon activity, and male infertility.
Result: Using the O8 microscope and scanner, biallelic variants in piRNA pathway genes were identified in infertile men, confirming the significant role of piRNA dysfunction in human spermatogenic failure. Variants in genes such as PIWIL1 and TDRD1 were directly linked to impaired piRNA biogenesis and abnormal sperm production. The study also showed that transposon de-repression occurred in spermatogonia due to these genetic mutations.
Nature Communications | 2024-08-09
M8 Microscope and Slide Scanner Highlights the Role of CCL3 in Macrophage Recruitment and Cutaneous Wound Healing in Mice
Using PreciPoint M8 digital microscope, this study investigates the role of C-C motif chemokine ligand 3 (CCL3) in cutaneous wound healing in mice. Skin, as the largest organ, requires efficient healing mechanisms to maintain its barrier function. The healing process involves inflammation, proliferation, and remodeling stages, with macrophages playing a crucial role by clearing debris and secreting cytokines. CCL3, known for recruiting inflammatory cells, is hypothesized to enhance wound healing through macrophage recruitment. The study compares healing in wild-type, CCL3 knockout (CCL3-/-), and CCL3-treated CCL3-/- mice. Understanding the function of CCL3 can provide insights into improving wound healing therapies. The presence of CCL3 potentially accelerates the transition from the inflammatory to the proliferative phase of healing. The research emphasizes the significance of chemokines in tissue regeneration. Advanced imaging provided by PreciPoint products ensures precise histological analysis, facilitating this investigation.
Result: The use of PreciPoint M8 digital microscope revealed that CCL3 knockout (CCL3-/-) mice exhibited delayed wound healing, with reduced reepithelialization and collagen deposition. Application of CCL3 improved healing rates in CCL3-/- mice by enhancing macrophage recruitment and increasing cytokine levels, such as TNF-α and TGF-β1. These findings highlight the critical role of CCL3 in promoting efficient wound healing and demonstrate the effectiveness of imaging technology in medical research from PreciPoint.
SAGE Publications | 2024-07-30
PreciPoint Digital Microscope Helps Investigate Lithium Redistribution in Si-Graphite Composite Electrodes
Researchers used custom-made PreciPoint digital microscope in a study involving lithium (Li) redistribution. It was found that Li redistribution is more pronounced at a higher C-rate of 0.5 C, indicating a preference for graphite over silicon (Si) lithiation. To analyze Li redistribution in Si-graphite composite (SiG) electrodes, various techniques were used. The methods employed included in situ and operando X-ray diffraction (XRD), ex situ light microscopy (LM), in situ optical microscopy of cross-sectioned full cells (CS-IOM), and 3D microstructure-resolved simulations. First, the lithiation behavior of graphite and SiG full cells (20.8 wt.% Si) was validated using XRD, LM, CS-IOM, and simulations. Then, Li redistribution between graphite and Si components was investigated. Operando XRD during charging showed higher lithiation in graphite, suggesting Li moves to Si during relaxation. In situ and ex situ optical microscopy confirmed this, observing the disappearance of the golden LiC6 phase over 24 hours. Simulations supported these findings, showing Li concentration variations in both graphite and Si.
Result: To gain a better understanding of the Li redistribution behavior of the SiG composite electrodes, a graphite electrode and a SiG electrode were compared, referred to as SiG20.8. Experts used a custom-made digital microscope from PreciPoint with a 40X objective to acquire one image every 60s, using the stacked image mode. For the graphite cells, 150 images in a distance of 0.25 ÎĽm were taken and merged into one image. Since graphite and Si exhibit different kinetic, electronic, and thermodynamic characteristics during lithiation, more pronounced differences in Li redistribution with higher C-rates were expected. Therefore, C-rates of 0.1 C and 0.5 C were chosen as 0.5 C still allows for a sufficient time-resolution in the operando XRD measurements.
The Electrochemical Society | 2024-07-03
Fritz Slide Scanner Enables Targeted siRNA Delivery via Multicompartment Polyion Complex Micelles for Antistromal Therapy in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
The PreciPoint Fritz Slide Scanner was pivotal in analyzing multicompartment polyion complex micelles (PICMs) used for siRNA delivery targeting cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). The study explores HCC\'s challenge as a chemoresistant tumor and the potential of antistromal therapy focusing on CAFs. CAFs, known to support tumor growth and neoangiogenesis, express microfibrillar-associated protein 5 (MFAP-5), a key target. Researchers developed biocompatible PICMs utilizing triblock copolymers, integrating anti-MFAP-5 siRNA and desloratadine to enhance endosomal escape. These PICMs were examined using the PreciPoint Fritz Slide Scanner, revealing promising antitumor effects by significantly reducing hepatic tumor burden. This novel RNA interference approach offers insights into future cancer therapies.
Result: The PreciPoint Fritz Slide Scanner helped researchers demonstrate that siMFAP-5/DES PICMs substantially reduced MFAP-5 expression in CAFs, leading to an 80% reduction in hepatic tumor burden. The scanner confirmed the PICMs\' precise targeting of CAFs, inhibiting tumor-related angiogenesis and enhancing therapeutic efficacy in the HCC mouse model.
Wiley | 2024-06-21
M8 Microscope and Scanner Used in a Study to Achieve High Accuracy with Few-Shot Classification and Data Augmentation in Histopathology
Researchers used the M8 digital microscope and scanner to enhance artificial intelligence (AI) in histopathology, addressing image scarcity and data heterogeneity. They trained models with data from one scanner and site, achieving 90% accuracy on a multicenter database, matching primary data performance. EfficientNet B0 was the best for feature extraction. Prototypes from different scanners showed minimal accuracy deviation. Adapting to new tumor entities, the model classified urothelial carcinoma tissues with 93.6% accuracy using three annotations per subclass. This method supports an interactive AI system requiring few annotations and is adaptable to new tasks without extensive retraining. This demonstrates that few-shot classification with data augmentation can train robust models with minimal data. The approach allows for easy adaptation to new tasks, making it ideal for non-technical users. By reducing the need for extensive annotations and complex retraining, this method significantly improves efficiency and usability in histopathology AI applications.
Result: All tissue sections from the primary test set (30 slides) and adaptation set (9 slides) were digitized with four microscopic scanners including Precipoint’s M8 microscope and scanner. For manual digitization, a camera was mounted on a standard microscope and connected to a computer. The microscope stage was moved manually, systematically traversing the glass slide while the software stitched images from the video stream in real-time, resulting in one WSI representing the glass slide. The data set was included as a special challenge, with sub-optimal imaging conditions like saturation chosen during digitization. Each WSI was aligned to the WSI obtained by the primary scanner to transfer the annotations of the tissue classes to it.
Journal of Pathology Informatics | 2024-06-06
M8 Microscope and Scanner Used in Research on ZIF-8 Sericin Hydrogel for Bone Regeneration Promoting Angiogenesis and Osteogenesis
A recent study used the M8 microscope and scanner to evaluate a novel bone regeneration scaffold. Designing scaffolds with optimal biodegradability, osteogenic potential, and angiogenic properties presents a significant challenge. Thymosin beta 10 (TMSB10), known for its roles in angiogenesis and osteogenic differentiation, faces activity preservation limitations. To address this, researchers engineered ZIF-8 as a carrier for TMSB10 (TMSB10@ZIF-8), integrating it into a self-assembled sericin hydrogel. Testing the composite in a rat cranial defect model revealed successful synthesis of TMSB10@ZIF-8 with an 88.21% encapsulation efficiency. The sustained release of TMSB10 from this composite significantly enhanced tube formation in HUVECs and promoted angiogenesis in the CAM model. Additionally, it notably improved osteogenic differentiation in MC 3 T3-E1 cells. Eight weeks post-implantation, the TMSB10@ZIF-8/Sericin hydrogel group demonstrated substantial bone healing (86.77 ± 8.91%), outperforming controls.
Result: Histological observation of the skulls was conducted using M8 microscope and scanner. The skulls were first decalcified, followed by dehydration using a graded series of ethanol. Subsequently, the samples were cleared in xylene and embedded in paraffin. Tissue slices were then obtained from the central area of each defect and subjected to staining with H&E, Masson\'s trichrome, and Sirius Red for microscopic evaluation. The approach enabled detailed examination and documentation of tissue morphology and composition within the bone defects, providing crucial insights into the efficacy of the TMSB10@ZIF-8/Sericin hydrogel scaffold in promoting bone regeneration.
International Journal of Biological Macromolecules | 2024-05-01
M8 Microscope and Scanner Investigates High-Grade Pancreatic Neuroendocrine Tumors in Mice with MEN1, ATRX, and PTEN Deletion
M8 microscope and scanner was used in the research involving pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs) that are rare yet aggressive malignancies lacking effective therapies. Characterized by extensive heterogeneity, PanNETs often present at advanced stages, resulting in poor prognoses. Research efforts focusing on genomic landscapes have identified recurrent mutations in MEN1, ATRX, DAXX, and PTEN, critical in PanNET pathogenesis. The development of effective therapeutics is hindered by this heterogeneity and limited preclinical models. Notably, MEN1, ATRX, and PTEN deletions in mice mimic PanNET tumorigenesis, offering a promising model for translational research and therapeutic development. Understanding the roles of these mutations and associated pathways holds potential for targeted precision therapies in this challenging disease.
Result: Researchers used the M8 microscope and scanner to identify key genetic alterations in human PanNETs. They analyzed the GENIE v14.1 genomic sequencing database, revealing frequent mutations in MEN1, ATRX, DAXX, and PTEN. Co-occurring mutations in MEN1, PTEN, and ATRX or DAXX suggest their combined loss drives PanNET pathogenesis. Using MAP mutant mice (Men1LoxP/LoxP; AtrxLoxP/LoxP; PtenLoxP/LoxP; Pdx1-CreER), experts induced tumorigenesis and observed robust tumor development resembling intermediate-grade PanNETs with progressive malignancy. RNA sequencing confirmed elevated neuroendocrine and PanNET marker gene expression, aligning with human PanNET biology. Transcriptomic analysis revealed MAP model similarity to human PanNETs, distinct from other mouse models, highlighting its relevance for studying PanNET pathogenesis.
Scientific Reports | 2024-04-12
M8 Microscope and Scanner and ViewPoint Software Used to Study Trastuzumab\'s Long-term Effects in HER2-positive Advanced Gastric or Gastroesophageal Adenocarcinoma
A study, conducted with the help of M8 microscope and scanner and ViewPoint software, identified biomarkers distinguishing HER2-positive gastric cancer patients with long-term versus short-term responses to trastuzumab plus chemotherapy. Genetic analyses revealed two non-synonymous mutations in ERBB2, occurring exclusively in long-term responders. However, neither HER2 gene copy number nor other genetic alterations correlated with treatment response. Notably, patients with homogeneous HER2 protein expression had improved progression-free survival on trastuzumab-containing therapy. Evaluating PD-L1, long-term responders exhibited higher PD-L1 combined positive scores, correlating positively with progression-free survival across the cohort. PD-L1 positivity (combined positive score ≥1) was associated with enhanced progression-free survival on trastuzumab-based treatment. Bioinformatics analysis linked increased PD-L1 scores to elevated CD4+ memory T-cell levels. While genetic mutations in ERBB2 were specific to long-term responders, a homogeneous HER2 expression pattern and PD-L1 positivity emerged as potential biomarkers for improved treatment outcomes in HER2-positive gastric cancer, emphasizing the clinical importance of PD-L1 in this setting.
Result: The study used M8 microscope and scanner and ViewPoint software to identify that the PD-L1 combined positive score (CPS) is higher in long-term responders compared to short-term responders, suggesting a potential biomarker for predicting the efficacy of trastuzumab in these patients. The PD-L1 CPS was also positively correlated with progression-free survival (PFS), highlighting its potential as a prognostic marker for better outcomes under trastuzumab-based therapy. The study found that the copy number variations (CNVs) of the HER2 gene (ERBB2) did not significantly distinguish between long-term and short-term responders. However, patients with a homogeneous HER2 expression pattern showed improved PFS, suggesting that the uniformity of HER2 expression might be an important factor in the effectiveness of trastuzumab therapy. The CD4+ memory T-cells were found in higher levels in PD-L1 positive patients. Overall, the thesis suggests that PD-L1 expression and the immune cell landscape, particularly the presence of CD4+ memory T-cells, hold significant potential as indicators for better clinical outcomes in HER2-positive gastric and gastroesophageal junction cancers.
2024-04-11
M8 Microscope and Scanner Explores Irisin’s Impact on Type 1 Diabetic Cardiomyopathy
Research on diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) in type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) was conducted with the assistance of an M8 microscope and scanner. Diabetes, particularly type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), presents a significant global health challenge, with diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) posing a major threat to patients, characterized by cardiac dysfunction leading to morbidity and mortality. While apoptosis is recognized as a primary mechanism in DCM, recent evidence suggests a role for ferroptosis, a distinct form of cell death involving iron accumulation and lipid peroxidation. Despite emerging links between ferroptosis and DCM, understanding remains limited, especially in T1DM. Training has shown protective effects against DCM, and irisin, a myokine, has been implicated in cardiovascular protection and ferroptosis inhibition in other conditions. Investigating the role of ferroptosis in DCM pathogenesis, particularly in T1DM, and exploring whether irisin mitigates cardiac dysfunction through anti-ferroptotic mechanisms are crucial research aims.
Result: The study revealed lower irisin levels in the heart and serum of STZ-induced T1DM mice. Irisin supplementation improved cardiac function in diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) by inhibiting ferroptosis. This was shown by decreased cardiac MDA, restored GSH, and increased SLC7A11/GPX4 expression. The protective effect of irisin was demonstrated to be specific to ferroptosis, as erastin, a ferroptosis inducer, blocked irisin-mediated benefits. Mechanistically, irisin increased SIRT1 and decreased p53 K382 acetylation, leading to reduced p53 levels, upregulation of SLC7A11/GPX4, and ultimately decreasing ferroptosis and protecting cardiomyocytes from high glucose-induced injury.
Cardiovascular Diabetology | 2024-04-02
