Guidelines

General guidelines

Consultation: we will consult with first-time users or before accepting a new request to discuss study details, including sample processing and transport, and biosafety considerations
Biosafety: the Core accepts fixed and unfixed specimens. For specimens that require BSL-2 protocols (e.g., unfixed human material), we require that users (1) confirm that they have received appropriate training, following institutional guidelines, and (2) consult with the core
We ask users that they acknowledge the HSS Molecular Histopathology Core Laboratory in published work enabled by Core resources. Co-authorship of staff members is appropriate depending on contribution (ICMJE Guidelines).

Samples must be submitted in a sealed container and properly labeled (PI name, ID #, transport reagent). Use pencil or markers designed specifically for histology labeling: Core staff is not responsible for the loss of sample labels due to the use of a non-solvent resistant marker, or for mislabeled samples.
Optimum fixation is tissue- and analysis-dependent. Generally, most samples are appropriately fixed in Neutral Buffered Formalin within 8 to 48 hours. After fixation, please wash the samples and transfer them to 70% ethanol of Phosphate Buffered Saline for sample transport. Please, clearly state the transport reagent in the container.
Samples must be transported in appropriately sealed containers, following biosafety guidelines. The Core staff will coordinate sample drop-off (room # S.201). We do not accept unscheduled specimen drop off.
Samples can be stored in 70% ethanol. Some laboratories store samples in 70% ethanol for long term, but we recommend short-term storage (a maximum of one or two months) in 70% ethanol, to prevent potential artifacts. The Core does not store samples: long-term storage is the user's responsibility.
Users will be notified via email when the project is completed for sample and data pickup. Invoices are submitted upon project completion.