MRC National Institute for Medical Research, London
Science for Health
Electron microscopy
The Institute has both Transmission (Jeol 1200 EX conventional scattering optics) and Scanning Electron Microscope (Jeol 35CF) facilities which are currently being upgraded to CCD photography. There is also a dedicated Electron Microscopy (EM) processing laboratory.
Staff from any department at NIMR may request TEM or SEM investigations for the purpose of providing supporting data for scientific studies ongoing within their own laboratory.
TEM techniques available include ultrathin sectioning and ultrastructural analysis of experimental tissues, cell cultures or pellets. Immuno-EM techniques can be post-embedding immuno-gold labelling of antigens upon ultrathin sections or pre-embedding HRP labelling. SEM techniques available include internal anatomy by dry fracture or dissection as well as external topology. Elsewhere within the Institute, a second Jeol 1200EX is set up for low dose high resolution of single molecules and viruses.
Generally samples are provided by the requester and analysed by TEM and/or SEM with reference to the questions of specific interest for their project. Results normally consist of representative micrographs and a written report of the interpretation of the ultrastructural morphology for discussion and publication. No previous experience of electron microscopy is required as expertise and advice is provided by the EM Unit. Alternatively, should staff/students wish to learn any EM techniques for themselves, technical advice, training and support can be provided.
TEM M. tuberculosis infected macrophage
Jeol 1200 EX transmission EM
© MRC National Institute for Medical Research
The Ridgeway, Mill Hill, London NW7 1AA
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