UNITMA UATM-272A Automated Tissue Microarrayer

Overview

The UNITMA UATM-272A Automated Tissue Microarrayer is a precision-engineered platform designed for high-throughput construction of tissue microarrays (TMAs) in translational pathology, biomarker validation, and molecular diagnostics laboratories. It operates on a rotary core extraction and insertion principle—mechanically extracting cylindrical tissue cores from donor paraffin-embedded tissue blocks (PETs) and precisely embedding them into recipient paraffin blocks at predefined coordinates. This process enables the simultaneous analysis of hundreds of tissue specimens on a single histological slide, significantly improving assay reproducibility, reducing reagent consumption, and conserving precious clinical samples. The system is purpose-built for compatibility with downstream applications including immunohistochemistry (IHC), in situ hybridization (ISH), fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), and in situ PCR—techniques requiring consistent tissue orientation, minimal distortion, and spatial fidelity across arrayed specimens.

Key Features

• Rotary multi-tip module supporting interchangeable core diameters (1 mm, 2 mm, and 3 mm) — selected and actuated via software interface without manual tool change.
• Dual high-resolution imaging system: one camera (1280 × 1024 px) for real-time donor block navigation and alignment; second camera (2592 × 1944 px) for high-fidelity recipient block mapping and post-insertion verification.
• Integrated 12.1″ capacitive touch LCD display (1024 × 768) running natively on Windows 10 — enabling standalone operation without external computing hardware.
• Expandable I/O architecture: supports USB keyboard/mouse, external monitor output, and USB mass storage for image export, protocol archiving, and recipient block report generation.
• Proprietary high-melting-point recipient paraffin blocks (developed and manufactured by UNITMA) — engineered to minimize core displacement during sectioning, eliminate “drop-out” artifacts, and ensure uniform ribbon formation during microtomy.
• Automated coordinate registration and drift compensation algorithms — maintaining positional accuracy across multi-block runs and extended operational sessions.

Sample Compatibility & Compliance

The UATM-272A accepts standard 40 × 25 mm or 50 × 30 mm formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded (FFPE) donor tissue blocks mounted on aluminum or plastic base molds. Recipient blocks are supplied exclusively as UNITMA-certified pre-cast paraffin matrices, validated for thermal stability (melting point ≥62 °C), low shrinkage, and optimal hardness for clean core insertion and subsequent microtome sectioning. The instrument complies with ISO 13485:2016 for medical device quality management systems and carries UL, CE, and FCC marks confirming electrical safety and electromagnetic compatibility. While not a diagnostic device per se, its output (TMA blocks) supports workflows aligned with CLIA, CAP, and ISO/IEC 17025-accredited laboratory practices. All software operations support audit trail logging, user authentication, and electronic record integrity in accordance with FDA 21 CFR Part 11 principles when deployed in regulated environments.

Software & Data Management

The embedded Windows 10-based control software provides a modular interface for block registration, grid definition, core mapping, and run scheduling. Users define donor block layouts using semi-automated fiducial detection or manual coordinate input; recipient block templates are preloaded from UNITMA’s standardized library (e.g., 60 × 40, 80 × 40 configurations). All imaging data, punch logs, timestamped operator actions, and final block reports are stored in structured .csv and TIFF formats. USB export functionality enables seamless integration with LIMS platforms or digital pathology viewers. Optional remote desktop access allows technical support personnel to perform diagnostics without physical presence—subject to institutional IT security policies.

Applications

• High-volume biomarker screening across tumor cohorts for discovery and validation phases.
• Concordance studies evaluating antibody specificity, clone performance, or assay sensitivity across tissue types.
• Molecular pathology workflows integrating FISH, RNA-ISH, or DNA-probe hybridization on spatially controlled arrays.
• Preclinical drug development: assessment of target expression modulation in xenograft or PDX models across treatment arms.
• Quality assurance in reference laboratories performing inter-laboratory proficiency testing using standardized TMAs.
• Teaching and training modules where consistent, multi-case comparative histology is required.

FAQ

What donor block formats are supported?
Standard FFPE blocks measuring up to 50 × 30 mm on standard aluminum or plastic base molds. Custom mold adapters are available upon request.
Can the system be integrated with third-party LIMS or digital pathology platforms?
Yes — all exported data (coordinates, images, logs) follow open file formats (.csv, .tiff) and can be ingested via API or batch import; direct HL7/FHIR integration requires site-specific configuration.
Are recipient blocks reusable or single-use?
UNITMA recipient blocks are single-use, pre-calibrated consumables. Reuse is not recommended due to paraffin fatigue, dimensional drift, and compromised core retention integrity.
Does the system support unattended overnight operation?
Yes — fully automated runs, including multi-block donor loading and sequential recipient block filling, can be scheduled and monitored remotely via the embedded UI or external PC.
Is service and calibration available outside South Korea?
UNITMA maintains authorized service partners across North America, EMEA, and APAC regions; annual calibration and preventive maintenance packages are offered under extended warranty agreements.