[Histonet] RE: cell blocks

[Thomas, Nancy]

Sarah,
The clear rite is the problem.  We have it on our processor for routine paraffin processing and it works well.  But if we use histogel or agarose, we make sure to use pure xylene ( not even recycled xylene).  In past experiments, we have found that in the clear rite station the gel hardens, shrinks and discolors.
Nancy

-----Original Message-----
From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu [mailto:histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu] On Behalf Of sgoebel <@t> mirnarx.com
Sent: Tuesday, March 08, 2011 9:06 AM
To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
Subject: [Histonet] cell blocks


So...I am trying to make a cell block using 0.9% agar.  I have done this in the past with no problems.  It was at a different facility and I don't know if the agar is the same?  I used bacto-agar this time, but last week someone tried to do my protocol with agarose and the "boogers" dried up and fell out of the block.  The only other difference is we have clear rite xylene substitute in this processor where the other one I used had xylene.  Tissues processed on the same cycle come out fine with the clear rite so I don't think that it the problem.  When the cell blocks come out they are as thin as the papers I wrapped them in making it almost impossible to see and to subsequently cut.  Any suggestions for making cell blocks without using the plasma/thrombin method or the insanely expensive histo-gel would be appreciated.

Second, does anyone have a suggestion on how to repair the cells that are embedded in the tissue paper thick "cell block"?

Thanks guys and gals!



Sarah Goebel, BA, HT(ASCP)

Histotechnologist

Mirna Therapeutics

2150 Woodward Street

Suite 100

Austin, Texas  78744

(512)901-0900 ext. 6912



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