Xia Histochem Lab

We have the full sets of equipment for histological sectioning (paraffin section, frozen section, thick-section) and histochemical analysis.

The major items in histology include a tissue-infiltration processor (Sakura VIP E Tissue-TEC), a paraffin-embedding center (Sakura TEC 5), a paraffin-tissue microtome (Microm HM 325), a cryostat (Leica CM1950), and a vibrating blade microtome (Leica VT1000S).

The major items for histochemistry include a UV-VIS Spectrophotometer (Shimadzu 1650 PC) and two microbalances. Other major items in this lab include a low-magnification stereo optical microscope (Olympus), a cell culture incubator (Queue), a gravity convection oven (Blue M), a water bath (SP), an analytical balance (Mettler), an ultrasonic cleaner, and a -80˚C freezer (Harris).

We have established a number of biochemical and histochemical protocols in the lab, to measure the concentrations of PG, collagen, and water in cartilage. We have access to several (4˚C) cold-rooms that are located in the adjacent buildings, to carry out the measurement of water content in tissue blocks.

In my µMRI Lab, we also have a double-door freeze-refrigerator (Revco flammable storage) and a -80˚C freezer (Sanyo) for sample storage, and various machine and hand tools (including a low-speed MTI diamond saw and a low-speed grinder) for specimen preparation.