+ Microtome Slicing Protocol

Properly Dispense of Peripherals - There is a decent amount of extra stuff required to properly utilize the microtome to meet our needs. Please make sure you take care of everything you use and return it to it's original space. This becomes especially important in regards to the blades.                             OIL                              These are very expensive and precise blades designed to cut tissue thinner than a human hair,                                                                   be respectful.

Leave it Cleaner Than You Found It - As previously emphasized we are very lucky to own one of these machines. Please make sure and follow all instructions indicated on this form and do NOT forget to put the cover over it once finished.

• • The Lab Microtome was donated to the Newman Memory Lab by Dr. Geuraughty. It is 60+ year old Model 860 from the American Optical Company. This piece of hardware is unique in that it is able to withstand the test of time with proper maintenance. It is Able to make precise cuts in 1-40 micron increments and is composed of 4 simple parts; the main frame, the blade holder, a universal specimen holder, and the sliding frame. In this lab we use the Microtome to perform histology on our animal models who have done their time.  The necessary [eropherals you will need to properly utilize this apparatus are the following

    • Tissue-Tek

    • Dry Ice

    • Mounting Medium (50mL Acetate Buffer Solution + 950mL of D.I Water)

    • Gel coated specimen slides : KEEP IN    -70 degree Fahrenheit     cooler located in LAR!!!!!!!!!!! 

      • These slides are coated with a temperature sensitive gel which makes the glass hydrophilic. When slides are not stored in this cooler the gel proceeds to melt thus making the glass hydrophobic which much complicates loading specimens. STORE THEM PROPERLY PLEASE. 

    • Paint brush set

    • Medium Weigh Boat (s)

  • The following is a simple protocol on the set-up  procedure.