Unlocking the Future of Research: Exploring the Advancements and Trajectory of Digital Pathology in Scientific Inquiry

By Marlena Jelec, M.D., MBA
Business Development Manager for Histopathology Services

Digital Pathology represents a revolutionary convergence of tissue research and technology, catalyzing transformative changes in the field of pathology research. This innovative approach to pathology holds immense potential, offering a myriad of benefits and paving the way for exciting future possibilities in healthcare research.

Image Acquisition:

Whole slide imagining involves digitally scanning tissue slides for microscopic examination and storing. The general process involves placing slides on the scanner stage and using a motorized platform moving across the surface at varying speeds. The image data is then accumulated and processed to create a digital version of the specimen. At MLM Medical Labs (MLM), our utilization of the recently FDA-approved Leica Aperio GT 450 Digital Pathology scanner ensures superb quality and high through-put whole slide image scanning, generating vast datasets that can be harnessed for comprehensive analysis. What this signifies for our clients is a quick and accurate digitization of their images, along with lowering or eliminating specimen storage costs.

Image Access:

One of the unparalleled benefits of whole slide imaging are the endless sharing and collaborating possibilities. At MLM, our clients and partners gain access to a cloud-based, HIPPA-compliant platform, Pathcore, for instant access to digital image archives containing up to thousands of individual slides.  Researchers can access digital image archives online from any device with a Wi-Fi network, without the need for purchase and installation of expensive software. Furthermore, team members and research partners can zoom in and out, annotate, perform measurements, and take snapshots of various portions of the slide. Digital pathology provides an amazing set of tools that offer increased efficiency in the pathology workflow while reducing costs associated with storing and shipping glass slides.

Digital pathology serves as the backbone for collaborative research initiatives. Sharing digitized pathology data across research institutions fosters large-scale collaborations, accelerating the pace of scientific discovery and enabling multi-disciplinary investigations into complex disease phenomena.

Image Analysis:

The digitalization of pathology slides facilitates precise quantitative analysis, offering researchers unprecedented granularity in studying cellular and tissue morphology and antigen identification. This quantitative approach is instrumental for unraveling subtle pathological nuances and gaining a deeper understanding of disease mechanisms.

Digital imaging of slides offers endless opportunities in terms of analysis. At MLM, we offer two main ways to analyze samples. The first is our network of pathologists from various specialties who offer detailed and customizable analysis readouts. The second is AI-driven precision pathology, which has the potential to give faster, unbiased assessments. Thus, we can offer AI-driven readouts using predeveloped algorithms or via the creation of custom-made algorithms to fit our client’s complex research needs. By employing sophisticated computational methodologies, researchers can extract meaningful insights, leading to the identification of novel biomarkers, potential therapeutic targets, and a more profound understanding of disease progression.

The synergy between digital pathology and artificial intelligence presents exciting prospects for scientific exploration. Machine learning algorithms can be applied to vast datasets, aiding researchers in automating image analysis, uncovering hidden patterns, and assisting in the identification of subtle morphological changes associated with various pathological conditions.

At MLM, we are setting a new standard by embracing state-of-the-art digital pathology solutions and enhancing our capabilities in digital image analysis. With the acquisition of the Leica Biosystems Aperio GT-450 Scanner and the use of an online interactive, cloud-based platform, we strive to facilitate better organization and interaction with virtual slides and digital images. Our cutting-edge histology capabilities and commitment to advancing scientific research ensure continued success of our clients’ projects. MLM  continues to push the boundaries of innovation. Our impact on research efficiency, diagnostic precision, and collaborative potential is poised to shape the future of pathology.