I have a very good method for embedding small tubular tissues to see lumen,
etc.
1.  Embed the tissue flat, i.e., lengthwise as you would embed a needle
biopsy, but don't fill the mold - allow to solidify
2.  Once the block has solidified, carefully remove the half-block from the
mold,  and slice the lengthwise tubes into segments, exposing the lumen.
      I use a razor blade -   helps me cut straighter.
3.  Slice the lengthwise pieces in segments as desired to expose the lumen,
then embed those lumen down in a new block.
4.  Voila - you have perfectly oriented lumen.  This works for nerves, as
well.
I've done lots of mice!  Good luck -
Jackie O'


                                                                                                                   
                    =?UNKNOWN?Q?Agust                                                                              
                    =EDn?= Venzano           To:     Histonet Server                 
                                   Subject:     Embedding                                                
                                                                                                                   
                    08/29/2002 10:17                                                                               
                    AM                                                                                             
                                                                                                                   
                                                                                                                   




Good morning to all netters! I'm writing to you from Buenos Aires,
Argentina, at 11.30 a.m. on August 29. Regarding the "embedding matter"
recently discussed in our list here goes our opinion and experience.
As we routinely process tissues from quite different animal species, some of
them being tiny e.g. rodents, birds; and other rather huge e.g. catte,
horses, we decided to adopt the following embedding method: We first orient
all samples attaching them to the bottom of the corresponding molds, and
finally we pour the melted paraffin. Whoever has worked with rodents' or
birds' tubular viscera e.g. intestines, has seen how difficult it is to
manipulate and correctly orient these pieces. Our trick consists of quickly
submerging one tip of the piece into melted paraffin and stick it to the
empty mold in a vertical position. Now it will be ready for embedding. We
've never attempted to do it the other way round. What are your thoughts and
how do the Histonetters belonging to the "other embedding school" to achieve
a vertical orientation of minute tubular viscera? I'd be pleased to read Dr.
Marshall's opinion on this subject. Hi Terry how are you?

Sincerely yours

Agustin J. Venzano
DVM, INTA, Argentina