[Histonet] FISH cytology fixatives

[Kim Merriam]

Hi Everyone,
   
  I am working up some FISH staining protocols for cytology (cell culture) slides (eventually to be OCT and FFPE tissues, but I need to walk before I can run).
   
  Most of the journals that I have read recommend using a fixative containing methanol and acetic acid (3:1).  The DAKO probe I am using calls for the use of 3.7% fomaldehyde.  I am wondering why acetone (or acetone/ethanol) is not the routine fixative for such a procedure.  Can someone let me know why to choose one fixative over another and what the merits of methanol/glacial acetic acid would be?
   
  Thanks in advance,
  Kim


Kim Merriam, MA, HT(ASCP)
Cambridge, MA
       
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