Frequently Asked Questions - Ultra-Thin

The main advantage ultra-thin section microscopy has over any other type of service is that cells and tissues can be examined at an ultrastructural level. This technique provides details of the interior of the cells and tissues, including organelle structure, morphology of macromolecules, such as virus particles, and does so without causing distortion of the cells or tissues.

There is no other method available to clearly and safely visualize ultrastructural details of biological samples.

ABI will provide you with an appropriate aldehyde-based fixative, depending on the particular type of sample you are working with, along with a washing buffer and an in-depth protocol detailing all the manipulations to be done during sample fixation. ABI will send you this material free of charge.

You will receive at least eight electron micrographs per sample, printed on 8" by 10" paper, giving you a precise, overall view of your samples. Electron micrographs are taken at a range of magnifications, normally ranging from 2,500x to 100,000x, depending on the type of sample being examined.

You will also receive an in-depth report, detailing the materials and methods utilized in preparing your samples, as well as an interpretive summary of the results of your samples.

Although the turn-around time does somewhat depend on the number of samples submitted, it usually takes less than 10 working days from the date ABI receives the samples.