Sample Preparation
Automated Tissue Processing
Sample processing for transmission electron microscopy is typically a complicated and sensitive process that involves preserving structure with tissue fixatives, dehydration and infiltration of rigid support matrix (generally epoxy resins). Robust and reproducible processing is crucial for fidelity of the images collected in the microscope.
Utilising a Leica EM TP, a fully automated system helps minimise processing artefacts by allowing full control of timing, agitation and temperature during.
Tissue processor - Leica EM TP
Ultramicrotomy
Sectioning of embedded samples for TEM requires ultrathin sections (<100nm) to allow transmission of the electron beam. This requires a specialised microtomy using glass/diamond knives to reproducibly cut sections with minimal cutting artefacts at optimal thickness.
Ultramicrotome – Leica EM UC7
Negative Staining
Negative staining is a technique that allow for visualisation of microorganisms, cell fractions biomolecules etc. Direct hydrophilic sorption of sample to carbon coated grids followed by contrasting around the sample with heavy metal salts, such as Uranyl acetate, Silico tungstate, Ammonium molybdate.