Pathology specimen archive

National Institute for Minamata Disease (NIMD) currently stores a variety of valuable pathological specimens related to Minamata disease in a dedicated facility. The main samples and materials stored include paraffin blocks, glass slides and 35 mm slides. Approximately 20,000 paraffin blocks are currently held, and all samples are being re-embedded in order to contribute to new research applications in the future. We currently hold approximately 100,000 glass slides, and we are working on re-cleaning all samples and digitising them for permanent preservation. Approximately 45,000 35 mm slides are currently stored and all 35 mm slides are being digitised for permanent preservation. NIMDalso stores a large number of pathological specimens of cats, crows and other animals that have been dissected to investigate the cause of Minamata disease from its inception to the present. National Institute for Minamata Disease is continuing its efforts to permanently store many valuable pathological specimens related to Minamata Disease as the national government.