[Histonet] Embedding E18.5 mouse embryos for vibrating microtome sectioning

[Johnson, Teri]

I have some formalin fixed E18.5 mouse embryos I need to do vibrating
microtome (VT-1000S) sectioning at 200 microns thickness. I'm having a
devil of a time getting proper support using 4% agarose. Can someone
give me some advice on what else to try, perhaps using a gelatin (?%)
post-fixed in formalin would provide better support? Those guys have
very tough and waterproof skin, and solutions don't penetrate it well. I
have bisected them and will start sectioning the cut surface first.

Thanks for your help and advice!

Teri Johnson, HT(ASCP)QIHC
Managing Director Histology Facility
Stowers Institute for Medical Research
1000 E. 50th St.
Kansas City, MO 64110