FW: [Histonet] prevent wrinkles when cutting

[Grantham, Andrea L - (algranth)]

Rachel,
First off, are you chilling and soaking the blocks after you face them?
Do that and see if there is a difference.
Don't try to get many sections to your ribbons. Shoot for a smaller ribbon (5-6) sections that are good. Cut slowly but consistently.
What microtome are you using? Are you using disposable blades and are they sharp? Don't expect them to cut well if you use the same blade to face the blocks. If you aren't using disposables, get some! They will make your life easier.
You might try to find a histotech at a local hospital lab who might be able to give you a hands-on lesson.
Don't despair! We all sat down at our microtomes those first times and suffered trying to get perfect sections. It takes practice. You might make some blank blocks or blocks with tissue you can spare to practice your cutting techniques. I used to do this with my students and it really helped them.
Good luck!

Andi G.
________________________________________
From: histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu [histonet-bounces <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu] on behalf of Rachel M Gonzalez [rachel <@t> gbi-inc.com]
Sent: Monday, April 20, 2015 9:07 AM
To: histonet <@t> lists.utsouthwestern.edu
Subject: [Histonet] prevent wrinkles when cutting

Hi

Thursday was the first time I ever used a microtome.... I move to a lab
that does not have someone dedicated to cutting. I already miss her.

I have no problems getting ribbons of 10-30 sections long but the pieces
are half the size of the original block. I am guessing they are wrinkling.
What am I doing wrong?

Thanks
Rachel
Senior Scientist....
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