Histomorphometry and Molecular Analyses Core (HMAC)

Director:  Gene P. Siegal, MD, PhD

Department/Center Association:  Pathology/Center for Metabolic Bone Disease (CMBD)

Established:  2001

 

Mission

The Histomorphometry and Molecular Analyses Core (HMAC) provides state-of-the-art histological, histomorphometric, and highly sensitive cellular and tissue molecular probe techniques.  The goal of the facility is to provide specialized analysis of hard tissues through techniques which have previously been unavailable at the Institution or in the state.

Facility Description

            Located in the Lyons-Harrison Research Building (LHRB), the Core is funded through an NIH Metabolic Bone Research Core Center grant.  The present location in the basement of the Lyons-Harrison Research Building has approximately 4,000 square feet of space.

Research Information

Processing bone tissue requires highly specialized techniques, which require unique equipment and technical expertise.  Light microscopy on frozen, paraffin, ground, and plastic embedded bone sections; state-of-the-art histomorphometry; epi-fluorescent microscopy of undecalcified sections; and histochemical analysis along with expert interpretation are provided.  Investigators also have access to sophisticated techniques such as electron microscopy and image analysis of bone.

Other services available include special stains, immunohistochemistry, and flow cytometry.  Through arrangements with other Cores, CMBD investigators have access to technologically advanced expert assistance in molecular techniques.  This includes the capacity to detect and quantitate vector sequences and specific endogenous gene products within bone, as well as to provide access to quantitative RT-PCR, tissue in-situ hybridization, and laser capture microdissection for molecular analysis of bone cells.

Service Availability and Fees

            All services are available at a modest charge to members of the CMBD.  For a nominal fee, outside work is accepted as time permits. 

 

Contact Information

            HMAC Principal Investigator:  Gene P. Siegal, MD, PhD

            Email:  gsiegal@path.uab.edu  

Phone:  205-934-6608

Laboratory Director:  Kang-Jey Ho, MD, PhD

Email:  kjho@path.uab.edu

Phone:  205-933-8101, ext. 6464

Laboratory Supervisor:  Patty Lott, MS, MLT, HT (ASCP)

Email:  patty.lott@ortho.uab.edu

Phone:  205-934-2007

Web Site:  http://cmbd.path.uab.edu/Bone%20Histopath.htm

 

 

Approved by:  Gene P. Siegal, MD, PhD and Director
Date:  February 22, 2008

 

 

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