Immuno-electron microscopy (IEM) is a technique that enable the localization of antigens at the ultrastructural level by labeling them with specific antibodies conjugated to (nano)gold-particles. The labeling is visualized as an electron-dense deposit in the site of the antigen-antibody reaction. IEM can be performed using the pre-embedding or post-embedding methods.
Thick resin sections of 0.5 - 1 µm suitable for light microscopy and ultrathin sections for TEM.
The workflow of samples processing for TEM involves several steps: primary fixation (performed in your lab), post-fixation, dehydration, infiltration and embedding in resin (performed in the core). Then ultramicrotomy provides thick sections (0.3 - 1 µm) stained with Toluidine blue suitable for light microscopy, and ultrathin (70 - 90 nm) sections stained with uranyl acetate or KMnO4 and lead citrate, ready for TEM imaging in the FEI Tecnai G2 Spirit BT transmission electron microscope.
The core facility is a full service lab providing access to advanced expertise in Biological Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM) related research, from consultation to imaging service and training to faculty, scientists and students on campus, external research institutions and industrial community.
We receive previously fixed samples, prepare them for TEM, negative staining and immunoelectron microscopy techniques, and perform ultramicrotomy, digital imaging and interpretation of results. Support is also available in planning for future electron microscopy experiments, writing grants, publications, and collaborations.
The ground floor entrances to this building all require previously authorized CatCard access. During regular work hours the building can be easily accessed via the bridge connecting the building to the College of Medicine. Building access after hours is only available through the use of a previously authorized CatCard.
1333 N Martin Ave
Tucson, AZ 85719
United States
Monday - Friday: 8:30AM - 5:00PM
(24/7 Access to Trained Users)
