[Histonet] Sectioning GMA with disposable blades!

[Linda Jenkins]

Dear Patsy, et al,
         That was me that mentioned sectioning GMA with disposable 
blades.  I have a one-year old Leica 2155 automated microtome and I use the 
high profile disposable blades (NOT tungsten carbide).  The speed is 
reduced to a VERY slow speed and the sections cut great ~ 4 micron.  We are 
routinely using this for our tissue engineered scaffolds and cellular 
constructs.  The engineering students much prefer using this method over 
the Polycut E.  That all being said, I doubt that 30 microns would section 
in this manner.  Also, it is necessary to wear safety glasses while 
sectioning just in case you hit an extra brittle area (first hand knowledge).
         Linda

Linda Jenkins, HT
Clemson University
Dept. of Bioengineering
Clemson, SC 29634-0905
864.656.5553
http://www.ces.clemson.edu/bio/research/histo/histo.htm