Fixing decalcification system DecalMATE

bone tissue

DecalMATE is an advanced automated system proficient in customizing fixation and decalcification procedures tailored specifically for bone specimens. By introducing groundbreaking automatic protocols to modern laboratories, it ensures heightened diagnostic precision, result uniformity, and expedited turnaround times. DecalMATE provides an automated and standardized approach to fixation and decalcification. Its setup includes a temperature-controlled processing cavity and an integrated magnetic stirrer that ensures uniform reagent temperature distribution and consistent flow onto the bone surface. The system runs autonomously through each step, dispensing reagents into the cavity and returning them to their designated tanks upon completion. The operator simply selects the most appropriate protocol for the sample, ensuring reliable results run after run. At the end of the protocol, a signal alerts the operator that the process is complete. Recent reports have systematically investigated the effects of various fixation and decalcification agents on the quantity and quality of RNA and DNA recovered from bone biopsies. These reports concluded that the RNA and DNA yield and integrity are significantly reduced when strong acids (hydrochloric, nitric) are used in comparison with 12,5-14% EDTA and formic acid. The studies show that the use of either EDTA or formic acid as “soft” decalcifiers is preferred, as they are more suitable for molecular studies. Moreover, it has been noticed that the use of EDTA at a pH range of 7.2-7.4 further expedited the decalcification. es.