Bebhinn,

I wipe cutting surfaces down with RNAse ZAP, be sure nothing freezes. Change
blade between specimens and rewipe surfaces. Wear gloves and be sure you
have no exposed skin, we all have RNAse and you exposed skin is probably the
biggest source. Slides should be baked if not RNAse free. I do not wear a
face mask because I do not have my breath on the specimen or even close. All
I can think of now. 

Good Luck 

Cynthia

-----Original Message-----
From: Bebhinn Treanor [mailto:b.treanor@ucl.ac.uk]
Sent: Friday, April 26, 2002 3:58 AM
To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu
Subject: Cryostat sectioning and RNase


Hello,

I am new to this area of work and am starting an ISH experiment on monkey 
brain tissue.  I am hoping someone can provide a few suggestions on how to 
avoid RNA degradation during cryostat sectioning.  What precautions should 
I be taking with regard to the blade and brushes, or the guide plate?  Do 
you recommend wearing a face mask?  Any suggestions would be greatly 
appreciated.

Thanks,
Bebhinn

Bebhinn Treanor
Research Technician
Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology
University College London
Gower Street, London
WC1E 6BT
phone: 020 7679 3904
fax: 020 7679 7316
email: b.treanor@ucl.ac.uk