Factors affecting the yield of microRNAs from laser microdissectates of formalin-fixed tissue sections.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND:Quantification of microRNAs in specific cell populations microdissected from tissues can be used to define their biological roles, and to develop and deploy biomarker assays. In this study, a number of variables were examined for their effect on the yield of microRNAs in samples obtained from formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues by laser microdissection. RESULTS:MicroRNA yield was improved by using cresyl violet instead of hematoxylin-eosin to stain tissue sections in preparation for microdissection, silicon carbide instead of glass fiber as matrix in RNA-binding columns, and overnight digestion of dissected samples with proteinase K. Storage of slides carrying stained tissue sections at room temperature for up to a week before microdissection, and storage of the microdissectates at room temperature for up to a day before RNA extraction did not adversely affect microRNA yield. CONCLUSIONS:These observations should be of value for the efficient isolation of microRNAs from microdissected formalin-fixed tissues with a flexible workflow.

SUBMITTER: Patnaik SK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3284398 | biostudies-literature | 2012 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature