Scanning electron microscopy as a new tool for diagnostic pathology and cell biology

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) use in the biomedical sciences has traditionally been used for characterisation of cell and tissue surface topography. This paper demonstrates the utility of high-resolution scanning electron microscopy (HRSEM) to diagnostic pathology and cell biology ultrastructural examinations. New SEM applications based on the production of transmission electron microscopy-like (TEM-like) images are now possible with the recent introduction of new technologies such as low kV scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM) detectors, automated scan generators and high-resolution column configurations capable of sub-nanometre resolution. Typical specimen types traditionally imaged by TEM have been examined including renal, lung, prostate and brain tissues. The specimen preparation workflow was unchanged from that routinely used to prepare TEM tissue, apart from replacing copper grids for section mounting with a silicon substrate. These instruments feature a small footprint with little in the way of ancillary equipment, such as water chillers, and are more cost-effective than traditional TEM columns. Also, a new generation of benchtop SEMs have recently become available and have also been assessed for its utility in the tissue pathology and cell biology settings.