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Inflammation can occur in various parts of the body including the lungs, nose, skin, eyes and gut resulting in a range of inflammatory diseases, for example, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
(COPD), hay fever, eczema, conjunctivitis and colitis. The Histrochemistry Research Unit
(HRU) provides histropathology support to the scientists and clinicians looking at the mechanisms involved in these diseases. Small samples of tissue can be collected from volunteers taking part in our research projects and embedded into wax or plastic. Thin sections (2-4 thousandths of a
millimetre) are then cut and can be stained by different methods to look at the general structure of the tissue and the cells that are present. By undertaking these studies we are aiming to gain a better understanding of these diseases in the hope of better treatments being developed.
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This picture shows on of the conducting airways in a lung. This sample was collected from a subject with COPD and mucus (bright pink) can be seen inside the airway.
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This picture of a mast cell viewed under an electron microscope which allows us to magnify cells thousands of times. During an allergic reaction mast cells release the chemicals from their granules inside the cell. These chemicals can contribute to the clinical symptoms experienced by the patient.
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This picture shows the surface cells of the gut with red nuclei. the proteins in the green seal the cells together to form a protective barrier at the gut surface.
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