ISSN:
0741-0581
Keywords:
Monolayer cells
;
preparation for SEM
;
Life and Medical Sciences
;
Cell & Developmental Biology
Source:
Wiley InterScience Backfile Collection 1832-2000
Topics:
Natural Sciences in General
Notes:
Monolayers of PtK-1 and HeLa cells grown on glass or plastic supports are extremely susceptible to lacerations, e.g., splits and cracks caused mainly by shrinkage when prepared for scanning electron microscopy (SEM). We find that a four-step fixation procedure including glutaraldehyde, OsO4, tannic acid, and uranylacetate application, in combination with critical point drying, drastically reduces these structural damages. In addition, the conductivity of the specimens is enhanced, so that they can be investigated without gold coating. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) investigation of perpendicular sections in the area of lacerations provides evidence that the subcortical cytoskeletal elements are of crucial importance in maintaining cell membrane stability during the preparations. Our relatively quick and simple procedure results in an improved structural appearance of the cells.
Additional Material:
3 Ill.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/jemt.1060010302
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