Plateform of Experimental Histology of Montpellier (RHEM)
The Réseau d'Histologie Expérimentale de Montpellier (RHEM; Network of Experimental Histology of Montpellier) was created in 2008 to pool and rationalize the human and material resources, as well as the expertise and skills in histology and pathological analysis of experimental models of the different research institutes in Montpellier.
Application Portfolio:
All applications requiring the anatomical characterization and/or immunohistochemical analysis of plant and animal tissues in normal and pathological conditions, or in genetically modified models.
Principale expertise/Services :
RHEM propose a complete range of services, from sample preparation to their pathology analysis. Two sites are dedicated to sample preparation (Institut des Neurosciences de Montpellier-INM, and Institut de Recherche en Cancérologie de Montpellier-IRCM).
RHEM have developed a solid expertise in:
- Automated preparation/analysis of paraffin-embedded samples (sections, histological staining and immunohistochemistry) (RHEM-IRCM).
- Preparation of samples (fixation, isolation, immunofluorescence) from fresh, frozen, and cleared tissues (RHEM-INM).
- Sample clarification for fluorescence imaging (X-Clarity protocol), with or without immunodetection, and 3D reconstruction (RHEM-INM).
- Pathology analysis by a veterinary doctor or a clinician (RHEM-IRCM).
- Specimen digitization (virtual slides) using the bright field and fluorescence scanners of the MRI facility (RHEM-IRCM, RHEM-INM).
RHEM propose training courses on different topics and at different levels in the fields of immunohistology and experimental histology/histopathology.
RHEM's mission is to promote the access to biological samples. To this aim, RHEM is currently developing a tissue bank of biological specimens generated by the Montpellier scientific community, and of samples processed by RHEM. One of the main aims of this tissue bank is to reduce the number of animals used for experiments (3R principles: Reduction, Refinement, and Replacement). This bank will promote the scientific interactions among research groups.
RHEM, the animal facility network of Montpellier (RAM), and the in vivo (IPAM) and cell (MRI) imaging facilities offer complementary and integrated services with a final objective: the traceability from animal to image.
Access and service policy:
Samples can be prepared (sections, staining) by the facility staff or by users (material and reagents are available for them). Sample preparation by the facility staff and their analysis are fee-based.
RHEM has the GPTR and IBiSA labels. It implements an ISO 9001 quality management approach.