Translational Analysis Core

 

This core provides VDDRC investigators with the opportunity to move nimbly from investigations utilizing non-invasive molecular imaging and histology, often in tandem, in tractable transgenic models of digestive diseases to digitization and state-of-the-art high throughput analysis of morphology-based findings. 

Core director: M. Kay Washington, MD, PhD
This core includes three components:

  • Digital Histomorphology Service
  • Tissue Morphology Service

Digital Histomorphology Service

Co-Directors: James R. Goldenring, MD, PhD and Tae Hyun Hwang, PhD

Specific Aim: To provide VDDRC researchers with cutting-edge digital histomorphology services 

Services

  • To provide high-resolution digital imaging of whole slides and TMAs in brightfield and fluorescence
  • To facilitate the use of multiplexed fluorescence staining of histological specimens
  • To facilitate the use of quantitative methods for analysis of digital histology brightfield and fluorescence imaging 
  • To provide VDDRC researchers with access to cutting-edge application of artificial intelligence in morphological analyses as well as integration with other spatial analysis modalities by other VDDRC supported cores. 

Tissue Morphology Service

Director: M. Blanca Piazuelo, MD 
Associate Director: M. Kay Washington, MD, PhD

Specific Aim: To provide VDDRC researchers with high-priority access to state-of-the-art immunohistochemistry (IHC), expert morphologic interpretation, and imaging-histology co-registration services for human and animal tissues.  

Services

  • To provide expertise in developing, performing, and evaluating IHC studies for VDDRC members
  • To provide expertise in evaluation of histopathology of animal models that closely recapitulate gastrointestinal diseases and direct correlation with human disease and organoid morphology
  • To provide access to and morphologic assessment of human GI tissue samples, including custom tissue microarray design