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Some of the disadvantages of FFPE are that the procedure involves the use of formalin which is toxic. The formalin and wax ensure that cell structures and proteins are well preserved. It also makes it possible to store a large collection that will remain viable for a long time. Since FFPE tissue samples are stored at ambient (room) temperatures, it is a cost-effective method as tissue samples do not need specialized equipment for storage.
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The collection of various materials has resulted in FFPE being a plentiful resource of research material as well as being able to offer a historical perspective. These archives are also known as biobanks and can be developed in hospitals, universities, or companies that serve the research community. Donated tissues from humans or collected samples from animals can also be preserved using the FFPE method and archived for later studies. When hospital pathologists study a biopsy obtained from a patient, some of the biopsy sample is archived for second opinions. Therefore, FFPE tissues are especially crucial in the following fields: oncology, hematology, and immunology. This is important in studies of diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. To see the antibodies, stains can be used to show what and where the proteins can be found in the sample. It is then bathed in a solution that contains antibodies to allow it to bind to proteins and structures. FFPE tissues are most frequently used in immunohistochemistry where tissue sections are mounted on a slide.
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