Zeiss Laser Capture Microdissection

Zeiss Laser Capture Microdissection

With support from the North Carolina Biotechnology Center in 2007, Brody School of Medicine purchased a Zeiss PALM MicroBeam System which is located in Brody 3S-08.

The PALM MicroBeam System is a non-contact sampling technique which allows for the isolation of single cells or populations of cells from human or animal tissue sections for recovery of DNA, RNA and protein. Unique to this system is Laser Microdissection and Pressure Catapulting (LMPC), a break-through technology that combines laser microdissection with laser-assisted transfer. This allows target cells to be isolated and removed free from adjacent tissue for analysis without any mechanical contact with the specimen. This results in pure, contaminant-free, and hence, clearly defined specimen material.

The PALM MicroBeam System provides:

  • Gentle, contact-free handling of specimens
  • Flexibility to use membrane-scaffold slides for better LMPC applications or standard slides with no intermediate steps
  • Fluorescence capabilities
  • Reliable isolation and re-cultivation of living cells in a sterile environment

Visit our LCM Resources for protocols and more information on how to use this cutting edge technology. If you have questions about the LCM or need help with your technique, contact Cindy Kukoly, Research Specialist (Brody 3S-13, kukolyc@ecu.edu).