Adherence of LR White Sections to Glass Slides for Silver Enhancement Immugold Labeling

A continuing problem in immunogold labeling of 1 micron thick sections from blocks embedded in the hydrophilic acrylic resin LR White for Light Microscopy is the lack of adherence of the sections to the glass slide during the silver enhancement. This problem can be solved by using a 2% formvar solution to coat the glass slide.

• Cleaned glass slides are dipped in a solution of 2% formvar in chloroform and left to dry horizontally.
• Mark the coated surface with a diamond tip scriber and clean the under side of the slide with acetone.
• Transfer the section to the coated slide, which will then be placed in an oven to dry at 50°C.
• Use the Pap-Pen (EMS Cat. #71310) to draw a water repellent circle aroung the section, which will facilitate the labeling procedures.

Reference:
Slater, M. (1989) Adherence of LR White Sections to GlassSlides for Silver Enhancement. Immunogold Labeling. Vol. 65, No. 6 Stain Technology. pp. 297-299