Sample Preparation & Microtomy

Sample Preparation

The requirements for sample preparation for microscopy techniques vary depending on the sample, the technique and/or instrument to be used.

Generally, samples are best presented for microscopy when they are in their most natural state. For live cell microscopy, a whole living organism is best. For fixation, a whole living organism quickly fixed in Bioimaging is preferable to one that has been cut, or kept in the freezer etc, and brought down to Bioimaging. Damage to samples can inadvertently occur that will compromise the results. For example, running your fingers along a wheat leaf prior to cryoSEM work will damage the wax layers and impact on any results as the leaf has been modified from its natural state. Please contact Bioimaging staff for advice regarding your particular sample and application.

Two fully equipped laboratories are available in Bioimaging for fixation and Bioimaging-related protocols. We have a number of chemicals available for users for histochemistry and fixation as well as for other Bioimaging techniques.

Some Standard Operating Protocols (SOPs) used in Bioimaging can be found on the DocPort website or on the Bioimaging SOP link.

It is required that users have training on the instruments and in sample preparation for many techniques in Bioimaging. Please contact Bioimaging staff for further information regarding specific techniques.

Microtomy

There are a number of different microtomes for sectioning material in Bioimaging. These microtomes have various applications depending on sample preparation and the technique that is required. Further information can be found on the microtome equipment link.