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Inexpensive holder for hand-trimming resin-embedded tissues
1Department of Biology, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, Oshkosh, Wisconsin 54901, USA. wise@uwosh.edu
Microscopy Research and Technique
|March 6, 2002
Summary
Researchers developed a low-cost mount for preparing resin-embedded tissues for microscopy. This simple device securely holds tissue blocks for precise trimming, improving sample preparation for light and electron microscopy.
Area of Science:
- Microscopy techniques
- Histology and sample preparation
Background:
- Accurate tissue trimming is crucial for high-resolution light and electron microscopy.
- Existing methods for holding resin-embedded tissues can be complex or expensive.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a simple, inexpensive mount for securely holding resin-embedded tissue blocks.
- To facilitate precise trimming of tissue samples prior to sectioning for microscopy.
Main Methods:
- Construction of a mount using a base plate and a 12.7-mm drill chuck.
- Clamping a microtome chuck holding the tissue block into the drill chuck.
- Utilizing a dissecting microscope for magnified visualization during trimming.
Main Results:
- The described mount provides secure holding of resin-embedded tissues.
- The system allows for precise trimming of tissue blocks.
- The total material cost is estimated between $20 and $40 USD.
Conclusions:
- The developed mount is a cost-effective and simple solution for preparing tissues for microscopy.
- This method enhances the accuracy of tissue trimming for both light and electron microscopy applications.