[Histonet] microwave antigen retrieval

[Jackie M O'Connor]

Not every lab can afford the steamer.  Not every lab does Her2. Microwaves 
work just fine if you pay attention.  As far as microwaves not reaching 
above 100C - I guess I'd better quit boiling water in mine at home - it 
could likely explode or something.   My microwave in the lab went well 
over 100C when it melted my glass slides in a plastic coplin jar . . . .I 
have photos.   I think Sigma still has a good lab quality microwave.





Rene J Buesa <rjbuesa <@t> yahoo.com>
Sent by: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
10/10/2005 11:18 AM

 
        To:     Jeffrey Thompson <jefthompson <@t> salud.unm.edu>, 
histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
        cc:     (bcc: Jackie M O'Connor/LAKE/GPRD/ABBOTT)
        Subject:        Re: [Histonet] microwave antigen retrieval


First of all I don't know why you want to do HIER with a microwave oven 
(MWO). I used the MWO to heat the solutions (expedite the process) before 
doing the actual HIER in a steamer (any regular steamer could do) I used a 
Black & Decker (if it happens that you perform Her 2 Neu in your lab, 
DakoCytomation may provide you with the steamer for free). In the MWO you 
cannot obtain above 100 Celsius, and in the steamer you will get the same.
If you want to do HIER above 100 celsius you will have to use a pressure 
cooker.
Anyway, I don't see any advantage to do HIER with a MWO. I would suggest 
you to use a steamer (cheaper, more consistent and widely used). A good 
reliable MWO with wattage control will cost you many many times more than 
a steamer. If you insist in using the MWO at least you will have to 
calibrate it. I recommed you to read Journal of Histotechnology 
25(1):39-43 (2002).
Rene J.

Jeffrey Thompson <jefthompson <@t> salud.unm.edu> wrote:
Dear Histonetters,

Can anyone recommend a good microwave for antigen retrieval? The cheap 
oven we have gives inconsistent temperatures that I don't want to rely on 
any longer. I haven't been able to find an adjustable wattage model that 
is not extremely high end, but I don't know if the adjustability is 
desirable but not absolutely essential. Any advice would be appreciated. I 
apologize if this is a hackneyed question and I haven't kept up. Thanks,

Jeff Thompson


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