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Confocal microscopy and immunofluorescence protocols, optimization methods and techniques - is there an immunofluorescence or confocal microscopy protocol you want to share? Do you have some comments, protocols or suggestions regarding deconvolution or scientific imaging tips? We want your feedback.

Protocols: immunofluorescence, cryostat sections, sample preparation ...

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Buffers: permeabilization solution, PBS, tissue fixation ...

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Immunofluorescence

This immunofluorescence protocol is useful for labelling cryostat sections of sample tissue.


1. Submerge the slides in paraformaldehyde solution (make fresh solution) for 20 min at room temperature (RT)

2. Wash the slides in PBS (5 min.). Repeat 3 times.

3. Using a PAP pen, encircle the tissue section on each slide. This will help prevent excessive spreading of the reagents allowing one to use less. Do not allow the sections to dry.

4. Permeabilize and block tissue sections (permeabilization solution) for 60 min RT: using a micropipettor, cover each tissue section (volume will depend on tissue size) with the solution.

5. Primary antibody application. Dilute the primary antibodies in 1% BSA (Bovine Serum Albumin) and 0.05% Triton X-100 in PBS. Incubate the antibody and samples overnight at 4 C.

6. Wash the sections (3 x 5 min.) in PBS.

7. Secondary antibody application (apply in a darkened room). Dilute the secondary antibodies in 1% BSA and 0.05% Triton X-100 in PBS. Apply the antibodies to the samples and allow to incubate for 60 min. RT in the dark.
8. Mount the slides using a mounting medium.

9. Store in a darkened place to minimize photo bleaching.

 

Confocal microscopy safety: Please follow the safety recommendations supplied with the products or equipment you use, as well as state and institutional guidelines. The protocols and suggestions on this website are not a substitute for formal training. Confocal microscopy employs lasers - please follow proper protocol.
     
       
 
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