Models of biobanking and tissue preservation: RNA quality in archival samples in pathology laboratories and "in vivo biobanking" by tumor xenografts in nude mice-two models of quality assurance in pathology

Current status of proteomics of soft tissue sarcomas

INTRODUCTION

Proteomics has been used in soft tissue sarcoma (STS) research in the attempts to improve the understanding of the disease background and develop novel clinical applications. Using various proteomics modalities, aberrant regulations of numerous intriguing proteins were identified in STSs, and the possible utilities of identified proteins as biomarkers or therapeutic targets have been explored. STS is an exceptionally diverse group of malignant diseases with highly complex molecular backgrounds and, therefore, an overview of the achievements and prospects of STS proteomics could enhance our knowledge of the possibilities and limitations of cancer proteomics. Areas covered: This review examines all STSs that have been examined using proteomics modalities, discussing unique aspects, limitations, and possible improvements of individual reports. To contribute to the current progress in cancer treatment development using novel anti-cancer drugs, proteomics plays a central role in linking cutting-edge technologies, application of proteogenomics, patient-derived cancer models, and biobanking system. Expert commentary: Therefore, proteomic-based STS research will be developed as an interdisciplinary science. STS proteomics will be further developed based on the interaction of oncologists with basic researchers in various fields, aimed at obtaining an enhanced understanding of the biology of the disease and achieving superior clinical outcomes for patients.

The Role of Immunohistochemistry in Rhabdomyosarcoma Diagnosis Using Tissue Microarray Technology and a Xenograft Model

Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) may resemble other non-myogenic sarcomas and malignant rhabdoid tumor (MRT). Alveolar rhabdomyosarcoma (ARMS) often harbors a typical translocation, but embryonal rhabdomyosarcoma (ERMS) lacks any specific rearrangement. Histopathology is not always sufficient for an unequivocal diagnosis, necessitating ancillary studies, including immunohistochemistry (IHC). Sixteen genetically tested RMS and two MRT were xenografted and followed in successive passages. Tissue microarrays were constructed including samples from original and xenograft tumors. Desmin, myogenin, CK, EMA, INI1, LSD1, AP2β, fibrillin-2, HMGA2, nestin, and SIRT1 were tested using immunohistochemical staining. Desmin and myogenin were positive in all RMS, and the epithelial markers were negative in almost all RMS. New markers (LSD1, AP2β, HMGA2, Nestin, and SIRT1) were positive in all RMS and MRT. There were no differences in IHC expression between the three RMS subtypes tested except fibrillin-2, which was negative in ARMS. Applying new IHC markers can contribute to RMS diagnosis. Nevertheless, most markers are also expressed in MRT, and further studies are needed to confirm their value against this and other small round cell tumors.

Molecular pathology - the value of an integrative approach

Molecular Pathology (MP) is at the heart of modern diagnostics and translational research, but the controversy on how MP is best developed has not abated. The lack of a proper model or trained pathologists to support the diagnostic and research missions makes MP a rare commodity overall. Here we analyse the scientific and technology areas, in research and diagnostics, which are encompassed by MP of solid tumours; we highlight the broad overlap of technologies and analytical capabilities in tissue research and diagnostics; and we describe an integrated model that rationalizes technical know-how and pathology talent for both. The model is based on a single, accredited laboratory providing a single standard of high-quality for biomarker discovery, biomarker validation and molecular diagnostics.