A convenient method for in situ processing of cultured cells for cytochemical localization by electron microscopy

The effects of various exogenous agents on subcellular structures is of importance to many investigators and can be critically evaluated by the use of cytochemical techniques and transmission electron microscopy. Therefore various cell culture techniques have become increasingly important in biological research in order to help determine these effects. Presently, most existing methods for processing anchorage-dependent cultures for electron microscopy utilize cells grown on either glass or plastic substrates. Therefore various coating substances have been applied to the culture surfaces to facilitate removal of the sample, however, incomplete separation and sample fracture often results. Here we present a simple method of in situ processing of samples for electron microscopy involving the use of detachable chamber slides. This method allows for the use of a quick processing procedure that results in a complete separation of the sample from the glass slide.