Manzoni, M. | Search bioRxiv

bioRxiv2018

The landscape of S100B+ and HLA-DR+ dendritic cell subsets in tonsils at the single cell level via high-parameter mapping

Dendritic cells (DC) (classic, plasmacytoid, inflammatory) are an intense focus of interest because of their role in inflammation, autoimmunity, vaccination and cancer. We present a tissue-based classification of human DC subsets in tonsils with a high-parameter (>40 markers) immunofluorescent approach, cell type-specific image segmentation and the use of bioinformatics platforms. Through this deep phenotypic and spatial examination, classic cDC1, cDC2, pDC subsets have been further refined and a novel subset of DC co-expressing IRF4 and IRF8 identified. Based on unique tissue locations within the tonsil, and close interactions with T cells (cDC1) or B cells (cDC2), DC subsets can be further subdivided by correlative phenotypic changes associated with these interactions. In addition, monocytes and macrophages expressing HLA-DR or S100AB are identified and localized in the tissue. This study thus provides a whole tissue in situ catalog of human DC subsets and their cellular interactions within spatially defined niches.

immunology↗

bioRxiv2017

Multiplex staining by sequential immunostaining and antibody removal on routine tissue sections

Multiplexing (mplx), labeling for multiple immunostains the very same cell or tissue section in situ, has raised considerable interest. The methods proposed include the use of labelled primary antibodies, spectral separation of fluorochromes, bleaching of the fluorophores or chromogens, blocking of previous antibody layers, all in various combinations. The major obstacles to the diffusion of this technique are high costs in custom antibodies and instruments, low throughput, scarcity of specialized skills or facilities.\n\nWe have validated a method based on common primary and secondary antibodies and diffusely available fluorescent image scanners. It entails rounds of four-color indirect immunofluorescence, image acquisition and removal (stripping) of the antibodies, before another stain is applied. The images are digitally registered and the autofluorescence is subtracted. Removal of antibodies is accomplished by disulphide cleavage and a detergent or by a chaotropic salt treatment, this latter followed by antigen refolding. More than thirty different antibody stains can be applied to one single section from routinely fixed and embedded tissue. This method requires a modest investment in hardware and materials and uses freeware image analysis software. Mplx on routine tissue sections is a high throughput tool for in situ characterization of neoplastic, reactive, inflammatory and normal cells.

pathology↗