Services and certain instruments are available to all researchers via iLab. Researchers from the Jesse Brown Veterans Hospital, Rush University, UIUC, Northwestern University and the University of Chicago are provided internal rates. Other users can access services at academic or external non-academic rates, which are determined using government costing and market rates.

All users are responsible for their own laboratory safety training to be current during each use of the core facilities.

Services

Four circles showing cell stains and histology equipment.
Services available include:
  • Decalcification of small samples
  • Standard and custom automated tissue processing
  • Tissue embedding
  • Microtomy (FFPE and frozen samples)
  • RNAse-free sample preparation for RNA purification, laser capture microdissection and spatial transcriptomics applications
  • Direct chemical stains (e.g., H&E, Trichrome, PAS, toluidine blue, and others)
  • Immunohistochemistry with chromogenic detection
  • Immunofluorescence detection of 1-3 targets with Alexa fluorophores
  • Multiplex immunofluorescence (up to 8 targets)
  • ISH/RNAscope assays
  • Antibody optimization and validation
  • Animal tissue microarray preparation
  • Microtome and cryostat training
  • Consultations on sample preparation, antibody selection and assay design

Research Histology Core staff are prepared to assist you in your histology needs. To request services, please visit iLab at the links below.