DNA flow cytometry on human epidermis. The effect of serial biopsy sampling at various times

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Dermatology
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Leg ulcers are chronic wounds requiring frequent monitoring.
• Biopsy sampling is a common diagnostic tool.
• Understanding biopsy effects on cellular processes is crucial for accurate patient assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of serial biopsy sampling on cell cycle distribution in lower abdominal skin of leg ulcer patients.
• To differentiate between short-term (within 24 hours) and longer-term (consecutive days) effects of biopsy sampling.
• To explore the relationship between biopsy-induced injury and cell cycle phase variations.

Main Methods:

• Single-nuclei DNA flow cytometry was employed to analyze cell cycle fractions (S-phase and G2+M phase).
• Four biopsies were taken at equal intervals within 24 hours from leg ulcer patients.
• A separate cohort underwent four biopsies taken at noon on consecutive days.

Main Results:

• Significant differences in S- and G2+M-fractions were observed in biopsies taken within 24 hours.
• No significant differences were found in biopsies taken on consecutive days at the same time.
• S-fraction variation correlated with biopsy-induced injury; G2+M variation showed a diurnal pattern.

Conclusions:

• Serial biopsy sampling within a 24-hour period can induce measurable changes in cell cycle kinetics.
• The timing and frequency of biopsies are critical factors influencing cellular responses.
• Biopsy procedures may exert both local and systemic effects on patient tissues, impacting cell proliferation markers.