Scientific Publications

Scientific publications and exciting articles where PreciPoint products and solutions were successfully used.

58 entries « 3 of 6 »

Feng,; Y.,; Luo,; X.,; Li,; Z.,; Fan,; X.,; Wang,; Y.,; He,; R.-R.,; & Liu,; M.,

Use of M8 Microscope and Scanner Unveils Ferroptosis as Key Player in Radiation Colitis Offering Potential Relief and Mitigating Iron-Related Stress

Researchers have delved into the intricate mechanisms of radiation colitis, identifying ferroptosis as a pivotal process driven by iron-dependent lipid peroxidation and the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Utilizing the M8 microscope and scanner, the study demonstrated that heightened iron levels and lipid peroxidation are key factors in irradiated intestine injury. Irradiation directly induced lipid peroxidation by elevating ROS production, with Acyl-CoA synthase long-chain family member 4 (ACSL4) playing a crucial role in iron-dependent peroxidation of polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA)-containing phospholipids in the plasma membrane, initiating ferroptosis. Additionally, the research revealed that intestinal bleeding exacerbated the inflammatory microenvironment\'s iron overload, involving macrophages. This discovery provides crucial insights into the pathology of radiation colitis, paving the way for targeted therapeutic approaches.

Result: Digital images of paraformaldehyde-fixed tumor tissue samples were recorded using M8 microscope and scanner. These tissue samples were embedded in paraffin that were then incubated with primary antibodies followed by incubation with secondary antibodies. 

Abstract | Links | Tags: M8

Nature Communications | 2023-08-22

Mekapogu, Alpha Raj; Xu, Zhihong; Pothula, Srinivasa; Perera, Chamini; Pang, Tony; Hosen, S. M. Zahid; Damalanka, Vishnu; Janetka, James; Goldstein, David; Pirola, Romano; Wilson, Jeremy; Apte, Minoti

M8 Microscope and Scanner Used to Research Cytotoxic T-cell Infiltration and Pancreatic Tumour Growth and Metastasis

In a study facilitated by the M8 microscope and scanner, researchers have unveiled a strategy in the fight against pancreatic cancer. Their innovative approach combines HGF/c-MET inhibitors, targeting the intricate interactions between stromal cells and tumors, with chemotherapy (gemcitabine) to simultaneously address cancer cells. This combined treatment significantly reduces tumor volume, suppresses epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT), curbs stemness, and notably, eradicates metastasis. A key discovery in this study is that HGF/c-MET inhibition not only directly impacts cancer cells but also diminishes the secretion of TGF-β by these cells. This reduction leads to a substantial increase in the infiltration of cytotoxic T-cells into the tumor, promoting the demise of cancer cells within the affected tissues. Moreover, the combination of HGF/c-MET inhibition and chemotherapy exhibits an additional benefit—it normalizes the gut microbiome and enhances the diversity of gut microbial communities.

Result: Preserved pancreas tissue samples, treated with formalin, and encased in paraffin, were sectioned into slices just five micrometers thick. Utilizing M8 microscope and scanner, researchers captured high-resolution 20x magnification images covering the entire specimen. These images were analyzed to quantify the DAB-positive area/cells within the tissue sections.

Abstract | Links | Tags: M8

Elsevier | 2023-08-01

Zhang,; G.-K.,; Ren,; J.,; Li,; J.-P.,; Wang,; D.-X.,; Wang,; S.-N.,; Shi,; L.-Y.,; & Li,; C.-Y.,

Research Using M8 Microscope and Scanner Finds Injectable Hydrogel Antler RM Matrix Accelerating Wound Healing Rate and Reducing Scar Formation

Concluded with the help of M8 microscope and scanner, research showed that HARM accelerated wound healing rate and reduced scar formation in deer antlers. Also, HARM stimulated the regeneration of cutaneous appendages and blood vessels, and reduced collagen fiber aggregation. Further study showed that these functions might be achieved via creating a fetal-like niche at the wound site. The levels of fetal wound healing-related genes, including Collagen III and TGFβ3 treated with HARM were all increased, while the expression levels of Collagen I, TGFβ1, and Engrailed 1 were decreased in the healing. Moreover, the number of stem cells was increased in the fetal-like niche created by HARM, which may contribute to the regeneration of cutaneous appendages.

Result: The healed skin tissue was embedded in paraffin and subjected to HE, Masson, and IF staining. The HE and Masson-stained sections were captured using the imaging capabilities of the M8 digital microscope. This enabled the examination of cellular changes and connective tissue organization and provided valuable insights into the healing process. 

Abstract | Links | Tags: M8

World Journal of Stem Cells | 2023-07-26

Zuo,; Z.,; Wang,; S.,; Ye,; B.,; Wang,; Q.,; Wang,; D.,; Wu,; Q.,; Xu,; G.,; Zou,; J.,; Xie,; S.,; & Wang,; G.,

M8 Microscope and Scanner Reveals Improved Immune Response in Hybrid Snakeheads Subjected to Ammonia Stress and Fed a Kelp Meal Diet 

In an extensive study aimed at addressing sugar intolerance in predatory fish, researchers explored the potential of kelp meal as a substitute for dietary flour. Employing the M8 microscope and scanner, they conducted a thorough multi-tissue analysis, encompassing survival rates, histopathology, biochemical parameters, and transcriptional responses of immune-related genes in hybrid snakeheads (Channa maculatus ♀ × Channa argus ♂). The research not only provided insights into the metabolic effects but also evaluated the ammonia stress resistance effects of varying kelp meal levels. This investigation, enhancing our understanding of fish physiology, offers crucial implications for aquaculture practices, with the M8 microscope and scanner contributing valuable precision to the study\'s outcomes.

Result: Following ethanol and methanol treatment of the fish’s liver specimen, the sample was embedded in paraffin. High-quality histopathological images of the samples were obtained using the M8 digital microscope and slide scanner after hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) staining. 

Abstract | Links | Tags: M8

Aquaculture Reports | 2023-07-24

Li,; F.,; Yang,; J.,; Li,; Y.,; Tan,; Z.,; Li,; H.,; & Zhang,; N.,

M8 Microscope and Scanner Helps Researchers Explore the Role of lncRNA FENDRR and Fibroblast Suppressor in Colorectal Cancer 

In a study, researchers delved beyond the conventional scope of FENDRR research, which primarily focuses on its impact on cancer cells. Utilizing the M8 microscope and canner, researchers unraveled the intricate relationship between aberrant FENDRR expression, its unique localization patterns, and genetically altered fibroblasts in colorectal cancer (CRC). Their primary objective was to elucidate the role of FENDRR within the stromal compartment of CRC patients through innovative bioinformatics analyses. The findings of the research shed light on a previously unexplored aspect: FENDRR\'s ability to suppress cancer-associated fibroblasts by impeding their activation and collagen production in CRC. These discoveries have far-reaching implications, suggesting that diminished FENDRR expression correlates with a dismal prognosis for CRC patients. This insight positions FENDRR as a promising therapeutic target in future CRC studies. 

Result: The FENDRR RNA in situ hybridization (ISH) data were captured and interpreted using M8 microscope and slide scanner. The positivity for FENDRR expression was determined based on the presence of intracellular brown punctate dots.

Abstract | Links | Tags: M8

Translational Oncology | 2023-07-18

Wang, Yiran; Yu, Jiajie; Zhang, Xiang; He, Yaxin; Chen, Song; Fan, Erqin; Qu, Guanzheng; Chen, Su; Liu, Caixia

M8 Microscope and Scanner Helps Examine the Phenotypic Differences Between Double Haploid Poplars and Wild-type Poplars 

Researchers leverage the high-resolution capabilities of the M8 microscope and scanner to explore the phenotypic differences between homozygous poplar doubled haploid (DH) plants and their paternal counterparts. Rigorous morphological and histological analyses reveal distinct traits, including reduced plant height, smaller ground diameter, altered leaf aspect ratio, premature senescence of the top bud, and specific changes in the shape and cell area of the shoot apical meristem. RNA-seq transcriptome sequencing uncovers significantly differentially expressed genes, subjected to in-depth scrutiny through GO enrichment and KEGG analysis. Crucial transcription factors are identified and validated via qRT-PCR, elucidating gene function. Remarkably, hormone-responsive genes exhibit diverse expressions under IAA and ABA treatments, indicating the DH plants\' unique hormone responsiveness. Differentially expressed genes in DH plants encompass processes such as oxidative stress response, salicylic acid response, plant-pathogen interaction, and plant hormone signal transduction. A comprehensive TF-centered gene regulatory network for phytohormone synthesis and plant senescence is meticulously constructed.

Result: The SAM and stem fragments were preserved using FAA solution, followed by a gradual dehydration process using ethanol. Afterward, they were sequentially incubated in xylene. These treated samples were then embedded and sliced into 16 μm sections. The sections were stained with 0.1% toluidine blue. Finally, the sections were interpreted using an M8 microscope and scanner, along with Viewpoint 4.6.0 software. 

Abstract | Links | Tags: M8, ViewPoint

forests | 2023-07-07

Li,; X.,; Shi,; W.,; Wei,; G.,; Lv,; J.,; Wang,; D.,; Xing,; B.,; Zhou,; J.,; Zhao,; J.,; & Sun,; H.,

M8 Microscope and Scanner Used in Studying Annual Regeneration Process of Deer Antlers

Researchers have hypothesized that galectin, a group of carbohydrate-binding proteins with an affinity for β-galactosides, could be instrumental in the annual regeneration process of deer antlers. Using immunohistochemistry, Western blotting (WB), and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (QPCR) with the assistance of the M8 microscope and scanner, scientists investigated the expression levels of GAL-1 in antler tissues and cells. Their study revealed that GAL-1 was extensively present in key areas like the antlerogenic periosteum (AP), pedicle periosteum (PP), and the antler growth center. Notably, the research extended its focus to human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and their behavior under the influence of GAL-1. The proliferation, migration, and tube formation assays conducted on HUVECs demonstrated a significant decrease (P < 0.05) in the proangiogenic activity of APCGAL-1−/− medium compared to APCs medium. These findings shed light on the vital role of GAL-1 in the regeneration process of deer antlers and its impact on angiogenesis, providing valuable insights into both developmental biology and potential therapeutic applications.

Result: The tissue samples were prepared for HE staining by staining with hematoxylin and a blue-black background with ammonia after rehydration. Eosin was used as a counterstain for alkaline substances. The sections were then dehydrated, mounted with neutral resin, and interpreted using the M8 microscope and scanner.

Abstract | Links | Tags: M8

In Cellular & Molecular Biology Letters | 2023-05-15

Izquierdo,; A., M.; Dederichs,; M., T.; Cargnelutti,; F.,; & Michalik,; P.,

Fritz Slide Scanner Used to Study the Copulatory Behavior and Genital Mechanisms of Sperm Allocation in a Pholcid Spider

Researchers employed advanced techniques and a multidisciplinary approach to explore the reproductive behavior and copulatory mechanics of Gertschiola neuquena Huber, 2000, a small ground-dwelling spider found in the arid regions of southern Argentina. Utilizing the Fritz slide scanner, the team conducted in-depth investigations through mating trials, cryofixation, histology, micro-computed tomography, three-dimensional surface reconstruction, and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Their comprehensive study delved into various aspects, including the general morphology of male and female genitalia, courtship and mating behavior, genital locking mechanisms, genital coupling, and the intricate interaction between male and female genital structures during copulation. This research shed light on the nuanced reproductive mechanisms of this unique spider species inhabiting the dry landscapes of southern Argentina.

Result: Sections of the specimens for histological analysis were digitized using a Fritz slide scanner. Researchers showed that the species copulates with one pedipalp, making this behavior astonishing among pholcids.

Abstract | Links | Tags: Fritz

Royal Society Open Science | 2023-05-02

Mealey-Farr, Robert; Jeong, Jinho; Park, Juhyung; Liu, Shuo; Hausmann, Simone; Francis, Joel W.; Ibanez, Maria Angulo; Cho, Joonseok; Chua, Katrin; Mazur, Pawel K.; Gozani, Or

M8 Microscope and Scanner Aids Discover Distinct Lysine Methylation Events on eEF1A Influence mRNA Translation Elongation Dynamics 

Leveraging the precision of the M8 microscope and scanner, researchers dove into the complexities of gene expression, focusing on the fundamental process of protein synthesis. Modulation of mRNA translation at the elongation step is a key regulatory node shaping cellular proteomes. In this context, they explored the impact of five distinct lysine methylation events on eukaryotic elongation factor 1A (eEF1A). Despite its significance, progress in understanding eEF1A lysine methylation was hindered by a lack of affinity tools. Through the development and characterization of a suite of selective antibodies, researchers uncovered subtle cell-to-cell variability and active crosstalk between different methylation sites on eEF1A. The findings revealed declining eEF1A methylation levels in aged tissues, particularly in muscle. The research provided insights into eEF1A methylation-related functions and highlighted its role in aging biology through protein synthesis regulation. 

Result: Researchers used eEF1A methylation-specific antibodies, which were diluted at a ratio of 1:200. To develop the IHC, they employed DAB as the detection system, and hematoxylin was used to counterstain the samples. Researchers captured and interpreted images of the samples using the M8 microscope and scanner equipped with ViewPoint software. 

Abstract | Links | Tags: M8, ViewPoint

Journal of Biological Chemistry | 2023-04-23

58 entries « 3 of 6 »