Enhancing Organoid Research with Histogel-Based Embedding Techniques

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In the ever-evolving field of histotechnology, embedding organoids using innovative methods is transforming how we approach downstream histopathological analysis. A recently published article in the Journal of Histotechnology, Histogel-based techniques for embedding organoids in paraffin blocks enable high throughput downstream histopathological analyses, highlights the advantages of using Histogel-based techniques for embedding organoids in paraffin blocks, offering enhanced sample preservation and streamlined analysis.

Why Organoids Matter

Organoids, three-dimensional (3D) tissue models derived from human or animal cells, offer valuable insights into tissue biology, disease modeling, and drug testing. Traditionally, these cultures are analyzed using whole mount immunolabeling, which consumes entire samples and limits further assays. By embedding organoids into formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) blocks, researchers can generate numerous slides from a single sample, maximizing the utility of their research.

The Power of Histogel

Histogel, a hydroxyethyl agarose product, acts as a stabilizing medium that preserves delicate organoid structures during processing. The study presents three distinct Histogel-based embedding methods, each catering to different research needs:

Matrigel Dome-Histogel Disc Method: This method preserves organoids within their Matrigel matrix, encapsulating the entire sample in Histogel. It’s ideal for studies requiring matrix analysis or those involving co-cultured cells.
Histogel Streak Method: Organoids are extracted from the Matrigel and suspended in Histogel, then streaked in a thin layer. This technique is best suited for maximizing the number of organoids per section, providing ample material for downstream analysis.
Histogel Well Method: After extraction, organoids are concentrated into a small Histogel well, ensuring a high-density sample within a localized area. This approach is particularly useful when generating a large number of slides from a limited sample.

Advantages of Histogel-Based Embedding

Enhanced Sample Preservation: Histogel maintains sample integrity during processing, reducing the risk of organoid loss.
High-Throughput Analysis: Generating multiple unstained slides enables extensive histological and molecular studies.
Long-Term Storage: FFPE blocks ensure samples remain accessible for future research.

Applications in Histotechnology

These embedding methods open new avenues for histotechnologists working in pathology labs and research facilities. From cancer modeling to regenerative medicine, Histogel-based techniques provide reliable, reproducible results that drive scientific discovery.

Incorporating these methods into your workflow could optimize sample utilization and enhance the quality of histological analyses. As histotechnology continues to evolve, embracing innovative techniques like Histogel embedding will undoubtedly contribute to advancements in research and diagnostics. To read the full article, check out March issue of the Journal of Histotechnology (NSH Members visit your dashboard and click Journal of Histotechnology).

Need some CEUs, members can take the free JOH Quiz based on this article.

References
Havnar, C., Holokai, L., Ichikawa, R., Chen, W., Scherl, A., & Shamir, E. R. (2024). Histogel-based techniques for embedding organoids in paraffin blocks enable high throughput downstream histopathological analyses. Journal of Histotechnology, 48(1), 46–57. https://doi.org/10.1080/01478885.2024.2398381

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