Comparison of different drying procedures for scanning electron microscopy using human leukocytes

Using human leukocytes as test specimens, three different drying procedures for scanning electron microscopy: critical-point drying (CPD), Peldri II, and tetramethylsilane (TMS), were compared. All three procedures produced identical surface morphology preservation. An equal amount of volume shrinkage was observed regardless of the dehydrants and drying techniques employed. Considering the simplicity, convenience, and time saved, air-drying with TMS is by far the best choice for preparing animal cells for scanning electron microscopy.