Epoxy Slide Embedment for LM, TEM, STEM and HVEM Cytochemistry

Abstract

The selection of cytochemical and immunocytochemical specimens for semi thin sectioning for STEM or HVEM and ultrathin sectioning for TEM is enhanced by the ability to survey cytochemically stained specimens by light microscopy (LM). Procedures previously reported for this purpose, generally involve embedding the specimen between Teflon coated coverslips. The release of the embedded Specimen from the coverslip is sometimes difficult. Addition ally, the small specimen must be attached to a glass microscope slide for LM viewing. Reported here is a newly devised one-step casting procedure that provides for the embedment of stained cells or tissue sections in the form of an epoxy microscope slide that circumvents these problems.