Tissue Processing Laboratory

The Tissue Processing Laboratory, located at the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine, is dedicated to providing high-quality histological, cellular, and molecular services to support research excellence across the Penn research community and our external collaborators.

The Laboratory features state-of-the-art resources, including essential histology equipment, a cryostat, a microtome, a tissue embedding station, a multistainer, a slide scanner, and artificial intelligence (AI)-supported imaging software, all available for user access.

The Laboratory offers comprehensive services to meet users’ histology and imaging needs. These include training and assistance with tissue sectioning, various staining, slide scanning, and image analysis. TPL also provides support for pre-experiment setup and workflow optimization for the 10x Genomics Xenium Analyzer, ensuring reliable and reproducible experimental outcomes.

Our mission is to empower researchers by delivering exceptional resources, technical expertise, and collaborative support for advancing scientific discoveries. (TPL is funded by the Penn Dental Medicine)

Service Request Process

For Histology Service Users

1. Fill out the Service Request Form (*Please find the link below) and email it to the core (juyoungp@upenn.edu). The core will send you a confirmation email shortly.
2. Submit your samples following appropriate protocols.
3. Turnaround time: 1 to 3 weeks.
4. Pick up your slides.

For Cryostat/Slide Scanner Users

1. Fill out the Service Request Form (*Please find the link below) and email it to the core (juyoungp@upenn.edu).
2. Schedule time in Equipment Calendar: Cryostat Calendar/Slide Scanner Calendar (coming soon).
3. Use equipment following SOP.
4. Clean-up.
   (**For consultation or inquiries, please feel free to contact a core staff member)

Service Request Forms & Fee Schedules

Standard Histology (Tissue processing, Embedding, Sectioning, H&E and special staining, Cryostat Training & Use)

• Standard Histology Service Request Form:
  • Penn Dental Medicine Users »
  • Other University of Pennsylvania Schools & External Users »

Special Services (Slide scanner training & use, AI-supported imaging software, Xenium add-ons)

• Special Services Request Form:
  • Penn Dental Medicine Users »
  • Other University of Pennsylvania Schools & External Users »

Core Personnel

Core Director
Shuying Yang, MD, MS, PhD (shuyingy@upenn.edu)

Technical Director
John Park, DDS, MS, DScD (juyoungp@upenn.edu)

Contact Us

Penn Dental Medicine
240 South 40th Street
429 Levy building
(215) 898 – 2685