Jeson Clarke

How to Freeze Cell Tissue

Freezing cell tissue is a critical process in biological research and diagnostics, preserving specimens for future analysis. Proper techniques ensure that cellular structures and biomolecules remain intact during storage. One essential tool for precise freezing and sectioning is the Leica CM3050S cryotome, which provides reliable results for a variety of applications.

Preparing Tissue for Freezing

The first step in freezing cell tissue is to prepare the sample properly:

1. Harvesting the Tissue: Carefully extract the tissue to avoid damage. Minimize time between collection and freezing to preserve cellular integrity.
2. Embedding in Cryoprotectant: Use an appropriate embedding medium, such as OCT (optimal cutting temperature) compound, to protect the tissue during freezing and sectioning.
3. Snap-Freezing the Sample: Rapidly freeze the tissue by immersing it in liquid nitrogen or placing it on a chilled metal surface. This prevents the formation of ice crystals that can disrupt cellular structures.

Sectioning with a Cryotome

Once frozen, the tissue must be sectioned for analysis. The Leica CM3050S cryotome is widely used for this purpose due to its precision and reliability. This advanced cryostat allows researchers to cut ultra-thin sections of frozen tissue, making it ideal for microscopy and other downstream applications.

• Setting the Temperature: The cryotome maintains the tissue and blade at specific subzero temperatures to ensure clean cuts.
• Sectioning the Tissue: Adjust the thickness settings to achieve the desired section dimensions, typically ranging from 5 to 50 micrometers.
• Mounting Sections: Place the thin tissue slices onto microscope slides for staining and analysis.

Storing Frozen Tissue

To preserve unused tissue, store it in a cryovial at -80°C or in liquid nitrogen. Proper labeling and documentation ensure easy retrieval for future studies.

By using the right techniques and tools, such as the Leica CM3050S cryotome, researchers can achieve high-quality frozen tissue samples suitable for various scientific and medical purposes. Proper freezing and sectioning are key to unlocking valuable insights in biological research.

Author Resource:-

Jeson Clarke writes about core lab facilities, guiding researchers to access advanced tools and technologies. You can find his thoughts at lab infrastructure blog.