Laser Capture Proteomics: spatial tissue molecular profiling from the bench to personalized medicine

Introduction Laser Capture Microdissection (LCM) uses a laser to isolate, or capture, specific cells of interest in a complex heterogeneous tissue section, under direct microscopic visualization. Recently, there has been a surge of publications using LCM for tissue spatial molecular profiling relevant to a wide range of research topics. Areas Covered We summarize the many advances in tissue Laser Capture Proteomics (LCP) using mass spectrometry for discovery, and protein arrays for signal pathway network mapping. This review emphasizes: a) transition of LCM phosphoproteomics from the lab to the clinic for individualized cancer therapy, and b) the emerging frontier of LCM single cell molecular analysis combining proteomics with genomic, and transcriptomic analysis. The search strategy was based on the combination of MeSH terms with expert refinement. Expert Opinion LCM is complemented by a rich set of instruments, methodology protocols, and analytical A.I. (artificial intelligence) software for basic and translational research. Resolution is advancing to the tissue single cell level. A vision for the future evolution of LCM is presented. Emerging LCM technology is combining digital and AI guided remote imaging with automation, and telepathology, to a achieve multi-omic profiling that was not previously possible.

Automated summary

LCM is a powerful tool for isolating specific cells in tissue samples for molecular analysis. Recent advancements in LCM technology have enabled in-depth profiling of tissues at the single cell level, with the integration of proteomics, genomics, and transcriptomics data. The future of LCM is envisioned to involve digital and AI-guided imaging, automation, and telepathology to achieve comprehensive multi-omic profiling.