In situ embedding of cell monolayers cultured on plastic surfaces for electron microscopy

Various procedures suitable for routine in situ embedding of cell monolayers were tested including: (1) the use of different Epon substitutes, (2) the use of different types of plasticware obtained from different sources, and (3) different methods of preparing capsules for sectioning. Different resins reacted differently with different plastics and type of preparation. Merck Epon substitute bound to most of the plastics tested. Ladd Epon substitute released cleanly from all plastics tested when a suitable method of preparation was used. The results show that for routine embedding of cell monolayers it is necessary to select an appropriate Epon substitute and method of preparation of capsules for the type of plasticware used. A routine method is described, with various alternative steps which can be applied when particular difficulties are encountered.