Educational Objectives:
1. Illustrate the Cell Biology Liaison Working Group Classification of the criteria of malignancy
2. Review the known cell biology basis for the criteria illustrated in Objective 1, focusing on the structure and function of the nuclear envelope, nucleoskeleton and chromatin
3. Briefly review cell biology microscopy and labeling techniques that can lead to improvements in cytologic diagnosis. The participants will learn two-photon microscopy (capable of eliminating many steps in sample processing) and applications of live-cell imaging (capable of disclosing dynamic types of diagnostic criteria)

In spite of years of progress in cancer research, it is cytologists, not cancer researchers who have the expertise to actually diagnose cancer. It is as if cytologists know something that still needs to be learned by researchers! This session takes a unique approach by presenting cell biology from the perspective of a diagnostic cytologist. After reviewing common diagnostic criteria of malignancy (J Cell Biochem 110:795-811, 2010.), the possible structural basis for these criteria will be discussed by cell biologist Katherine Wilson, focusing on the functional organization of the nuclear envelope, nucleoskeleton and chromatin. By learning the molecular basis for diagnostic morphology, the session provides an intuitive way to familiarize the audience with cell biology concepts and techniques. Understanding the cell biology basis for morphologic changes can also reinforce diagnostic accuracy. Finally, cell biology techniques with potential diagnostic utility will be presented. Therefore, this session should have appeal for cytologists at all levels of experience—from beginners who want to learn or reinforce diagnostic concepts to senior cytologists who want to know the latest developments in the histone code, or applications of new microscopy techniques. The session would also be useful for cell biologists who may wish to learn the diagnostic significance of various cell structural changes.