Applications of TransFix: TransFix® Can Be Used to Stabilise Lymph Node Biopsies/Fine Needle Aspirate Specimens for Flow Cytometry
Time is critical for the enumeration of cells from lymph node biopsies and other solid tissue via flow cytometry, because cells and cellular antigens degrade quickly ex vivo. Therefore, immunophenotyping historically had to be perform as quickly as possible (1). Lymph node stabilisation can offer an alternative.
Background
Lymph nodes are small, oval-shaped organs and are an important part of the immune system. Lymph nodes are found close to internal organs such as the stomach, intestines, and lungs, and are most commonly noted in the armpits, groin, and neck.
Lymph node biopsies such as fine needle aspirations or open biopsies are often performed to confirm suspected lymphomas (for example, Hodgkin’s lymphoma), or to determine if secondary tumours may have spread from other sites (for example in metastatic breast cancer). Cells from these biopsies can then be disaggregated and analysed by flow cytometry.
Benefits of TransFix for Lymph Node Biopsies/Fine Needle Aspirates
TransFix has been used to stabilise cellular antigens and increase cell yields within fine needle aspirations and other lymph nodes biopsies. This allows immunophenotyping by flow cytometry to be conducted at a time that is more convenient to the operator.
Protocols for fixing Lymph Node Biopsies/Fine Needle Aspirate
Independent research studies have successfully used TransFix® to stabilise cells from lymph node biopsies, including fine needle aspirations (Cytomark does not take liability if TransFix® is used in applications other than those validated by Cytomark).
Protocol for Stabilisation Lymph Node Biopsies and Fine Needle Aspirates
TransFix Product Information
TransFix Bulk is provided in 20ml bottles or in 1ml aliquot sizes in packs of 1, 10 and 50 tubes. This gives the end user most flexibility with regard to application of TransFix to research samples.
References
Darzynkiewicz, Z. et al. (2011). Recent advances in cytometry, Part B: Advances in Applications. Volume 103 of Methods in Cell Biology 5th ed. Amsterdam: Academic Press.
