TISSUE ARCHIVING
From HeLa to CellNass; the development of tissue archiving
In this article, Lauraline Winter delves into the profound significance of tissue archiving within histopathology practice; shedding light on its pivotal role in advancing medical science.
Recognising histopathology practice as more than just acquiring biopsy specimens and making diagnoses is crucial. It also serves as a repository of knowledge through stored slides and specimens. Proper regulation of retaining, storing, and using human tissue material in research is paramount. Through meticulous regulation of the retention, storage, and ethical utilisation
of human tissue material in research, histopathologists uphold the highest standards of integrity and accountability. However, navigating the landscape of tissue storage is not without its challenges. From ensuring compliance with stringent regulatory frameworks to addressing logistical hurdles in archiving paraffin blocks and slides, histopathologists often confront a myriad of complexities when
attempting to safeguard the material within their archives. Yet, amidst these challenges lies a beacon of hope for the future of tissue preservation. Through innovative technologies and collaborative efforts, we are paving the way towards a future where paraffin block and slide archiving is not just a necessity, but a testament to the enduring legacy of medical discovery.
In correctly protecting tissue archives, histopathologists often confront a myriad of complexities around logistical and regulatory issues.
WWW.PATHOLOGYINPRACTICE.COM FEBRUARY 2025
It began with Henrietta In the annals of medical history, few names evoke as much fascination and ethical complexity as Henrietta Lacks. Born in 1920 in Roanoke, Virginia, Henrietta Lacks entered the realm of scientific immortality unwittingly, as her cancerous cells became the cornerstone of modern biomedical research. However, amidst the triumphs of scientific discovery lies a profound lesson in the importance of tissue archival and ethical stewardship. Her remarkable journey began in 1951 when she sought treatment at Johns Hopkins Hospital for cervical cancer. Little did she know that her cells – harvested during a routine biopsy – would become immortalised in laboratories worldwide. Unlike cells from previous sources, which typically survived for only a few days, Henrietta’s cells displayed remarkable longevity and could be sustained and multiplied in a laboratory setting. By isolating and culturing a specific cell from Lacks’ tissue sample, cell biologist George Gey initiated the HeLa cell line – a groundbreaking achievement in medical and biological research. The significance of HeLa cells cannot be overstated. They played a pivotal role in the development of the polio vaccine and provided invaluable insights into cancer, viruses, and the effects of radiation. Moreover, HeLa cells contributed to advancements with
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