What histology procedures can be done by the Pathology Core Research lab?
We provide a broad range of histology services including tissue processing, embedding, sectioning and staining by using frozen, paraffin and plastic section procedures. We also perform immunohistochemistry & immunofluorescent staining with PI provided antibodies. Histomorphometry analysis and Photography (via Bioquant system) can be conducted on the sections generated from our core or from slides provided by the PI.

What type of tissue can be submitted to the Core lab for processing?
We accept a large variety of tissue types including regular soft tissues (i.e. liver, lung, heart, kidney, brain & spleen, etc.,) soft tissues with implants (i.e. stented vessel,) bones (i.e. femur, tibia, spine, knee joint with femur/tibia attached, mandible & maxilla, etc.,) bones with implants, and teeth with or without implants. We are also experienced at processing all types of biomaterials, including engineering scaffolds and 3D co-culture gels.

Should I fix my samples prior to submitting to the core lab? What fixative should I use?
Yes, all tissue should be fixed prior to sending it to the core lab for histology services (for frozen tissue, 4% PFA fixed, sucrose cryoprotection is preferred.) Discuss your project with our core staff to ensure optimal results for your experiments. In general, Soft tissues and Bone tissues for decalcification and paraffin embedding should be fixed in 10% NBF (Neutral Buffered Formalin) for at least 24 hours, preferable with agitation. Bone tissues for non-decalcified/plastic embedding should be fixed in 70% Ethanol for at least 24 hours with agitation.  

How do I sign up as a new user?
Please go to our official website, http://CoreResearch.path.uab.edu, and download the Request form. Please contact the laboratory Manager, Dr. Dezhi Wang, at dwang@uab.edu, for a complete quote.

What are your turnaround times in general?

• Process & embed (paraffin) - only 1 to 3 days. Processors are run overnight when there are enough samples to control the cost. Embedding starts the next day and samples will be ready by that afternoon or the following morning.
• Unstained slides - one day or more depending on the total number of blocks, number of slides per block, and any special requests for sectioning.
• H&E stain – 1 to 3 days as slides are batch stained to control cost. If you need a quicker turnaround time, please ask our staff to expedite. Additional fees may apply.
• IHC – variable – Inquire with Dr. Wang prior to dropping off samples or slides. It will depend on the complexity of your submission and current workload.
• Plastic procedure including processing, infiltration, embedding and sectioning for mineralized tissue without implant – generally 6 weeks for an average number (~20) of mouse bones (femur/tibia/vertebrae).
• Plastic procedure including processing, infiltration, embedding and sectioning for mineralized tissue with implant – generally 6-8 weeks, and time is subject to change depending on the sample size and nature (density).
• Histomorphometry – Variable depending on the sample size and the complexity of the template.


Projects are generally completed in the order received (first come, first served). The turnaround time is subject to change due to the sample size/nature. If you have a deadline,   please let us know and we will try our best to meet it.

How do I submit the samples?
Bring tissue in cassettes (optional) in a leak proof container labeled with sample ID. Let us know if you want your container returned, otherwise it will be recycled. You can provide your own slide boxes or purchase them from the Core.

How do I know when my samples are ready?
You will be notified by email or phone call. Pick up where you dropped off. Initial and date the original submission form and leave it with the lab technician.
If you want an electronic copy of the services performed (a copy of request form,) please ask the lab manager to send you a copy via email.

How do I label the cassettes?
Please have a completed sample list ready when you submit your request form (sample IDs can be listed on the back of the form.) Hand label cassettes with #2 pencil or solvent-resistant markers (we use Statmark Pens from Statlab Medical Products). Labeling with Sharpies and other ink pens will come off during paraffin & plastic processing.