An optimized device for staining electron microscopy grids. (January 2014)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mathieu, E; Benmlih, K; Fabre, R; Hemmerle, J
• Is Part Of: Biotechnic & histochemistry. Volume 89:Number 1(2014)
• Page Start: 66
• Page End: 74
• Publication Date: 2014-01
• Subjects: Histochemistry -- Periodicals; Stains and staining (Microscopy) -- Periodicals; Biotechnology -- Periodicals; 572
• DOI: 10.3109/10520295.2013.820841
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1052-0295

Abstract

<abstract> <title>Abstract</title> <p>Proper staining of grids is critical for transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Staining must be done as quickly as possible using minimal reagents and with consideration for the environment. We developed a new device for efficient staining of multiple TEM grids. We studied reagent evaporation, rinsing volume, flow rate and re-use of uranyl acetate, and provide here a procedure for efficient staining using the new device. Our device permits TEM grids to be stained with less reagent than alternative staining apparatuses; staining requires a total volume of 260 μl for five grids. Reagent evaporation is less than 6% even if used at 37° C. Moreover, our staining apparatus reduces chemical waste and shortens experiment time by staining several grids simultaneously. Our staining device is a compromise between time-consuming single grid processing and expensive commercial devices that consume large amounts of reagents.</p> </abstract>