Preparation of serial sections of arthropods using 2,2-dimethoxypropane dehydration and epoxy resin embedding under vacuum.

Abstract

Improved methods are described for anatomical investigation of small insects and other arthropods using serial semithin sections. The specimens were dehydrated with acidified 2,2-dimethoxypropane and embedded in ERL 4206 epoxy resin under vacuum. This procedure ensures good resin impregnation of thin, long body compartments and appendages. Furthermore, it produces excellent overall preservation of the specimen and its fragile anatomical structures. This procedure saves time and gives excellent results when sectioning difficult arthropod material. A continuous recording of serial semithin sections is possible when diamond knives are used.

• Authors: A Pernstich, H W Krenn, G Pass
• Journal: Biotechnic & histochemistry : official publication of the Biological Stain Commission (Biotech Histochem) Vol. 78 Issue 1 Pg. 5-9 (Feb 2003) ISSN: 1052-0295 [Print] England
• PMID: 12713135 (Publication Type: Evaluation Study, Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't, Validation Study)

Chemical References

• Epoxy Resins
• Polyvinyls
• Propanols
• ERL 4206
• 2,2-dimethoxypropane

Topics

• Anatomy, Cross-Sectional (instrumentation, methods)
• Animals
• Arthropods
• Dehydration
• Epoxy Resins
• Feasibility Studies
• Microtomy (instrumentation, methods)
• Moths (cytology)
• Plastic Embedding (instrumentation, methods)
• Polyvinyls
• Propanols
• Staining and Labeling (methods)
• Vacuum