DIFFERENTIAL STAINING OF ULTRATHN SECTIONS OF EPON-EMBEDDED TISSUES FOR LIGHT MICROSCOPY

Abstract
A convenient method is described for the removal of Epon 812 from thin sections, utilizing a saturated solutions of sodium hydroxide. The tissue architecture and ultrastructural details are preserved. Hematoxylin-eosin, periodic acid-Schiff and phosphotungstic-hematoxylin staining modifications are suggested which result in differentiation similar to that seen in paraffin sections. The technique is applicable to ultrathin sections suitable for examination with the electron microscope, allowing comparison of staining characteristics and fine structure of adjacent thin sections.