Practical Electron Microscopy

This is an extensively illustrated laboratory manual of transmission electron microscopy techniques for the technician, graduate student, or researcher. Chapters begin with a general discussion, move on to the chemicals and equipment required for the method being described and conclude with a step-by-step presentation of the method and instructions for the preparation of solutions. Notes at the end of each chapter warn of possible pitfalls and outline ‘tricks of the trade’. The methods and techniques outlined have been tested for over ten years in clinical and research laboratory situations, and are entirely reliable. Practical Electron Microscopy covers fixation, dehydration and embedding, semi-thin and thin sectioning, the electron microscope, and photography. For this new edition, the chapters on photography and the electron microscope have been completely rewritten and two new chapters have been added, one on immuno electron microscopy using colloidal gold, and one dealing with such special techniques as retrieving specimens from paraffin and handling nasal brushings and blood samples. This manual will be an invaluable guide to anyone using electron microscopy on human and animal tissue and wishing to develop a routine that guarantees good and reproducible results.