[Histonet] Rate of formalin penetration in human brain sections

[Geoff McAuliffe]

Hi Karen:

    Formalin fixes tissue slowly, even very thin slices. This has been 
known for many, many years. The work of Medwar and of John R. Baker 
(Principles of Biological Technique, John Wiley and Sons, 1958) comes to 
mind. Perhaps there are slight differences between kidney and brain but 
my guess is that if there is a difference it is insignificant. Before 
trying to design (how are you going to define fixation?) and perform 
such investigations I suggest a trip to the library. I doubt if the 
information you seek is on line, it is too old. However, do not confuse 
"old" with "out dated" or "bad". Good luck.

Geoff


Karen_Skish <@t> rush.edu wrote:
> Hi--
> One of our investigators is interested in the approximate rate of fixation 
> of human brain tissue, independent of any formaldehyde diffusion effects. 
> In other words, in a very small or very thin piece of human brain tissue, 
> what is the fixation rate? He found published data for rat kidney, but 
> would like to try to at least determine if the fixation rate should be 
> higher or lower in human brain tissue. He is looking for data for room 
> temperature, but any information would be greatly appreciated.
> Thanks!
> Karen M Skish, MS, PA(ASCP)MT
> Pathologists' Assistant & Manager, Neuropathology Lab
> Rush Alzheimer's Disease Center
> Cohn Research Building, Lab 441
> 1735 West Harrison Street
> Chicago IL 60612
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>
>   


-- 
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Geoff McAuliffe, Ph.D.
Neuroscience and Cell Biology
Robert Wood Johnson Medical School
675 Hoes Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854
voice: (732)-235-4583 
mcauliff <@t> umdnj.edu
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