Method utilizing convex geometry for laser capture microdissection

Abstract

A process of microdissection where a tissue sample is conventionally visualized in a microscope. A selectively activatable convex surface is provided, preferably on the periphery at the distal end of a rod. This selectively activatable convex surface when locally activated, typically with a laser through an optic light path in the microscope, provides the activated region with adhesive properties. The tissue sample has at least one portion, which is to be extracted is identified. This identified portion is contacted with a portion of the selectively activatable convex surface on the periphery of the rod. When the convex surface is locally activated, typically by exposure to laser light in the footprint of the desired portion, an adhesive transfer surface on the selectively activatable convex surface is activated which adheres to the desired cells in the footprint of the desired portion. Thereafter, the adhesive transfer surface is separated from the remainder of the tissue sample while maintaining adhesion with the portion of the sample. Thus the desired portion of the tissue sample is extracted. The disclosed selectively activatable convex surface is preferably utilized to collect desired tissue samples at more than one location on the same slide or from different slides. A rod having a convex surface with the selectively activatable material is set forth as a staple for use with the apparatus and process. Preferred shapes for the convex surface are disclosed as well as a method for coating rods.