Julie,

We have been using the Decloaking Chamber for several months now and are
quite happy with it.  Our "usual" HIER method is to bring our slides and
buffer to near boiling in a microwave then transfer them to a 93-95 degree C
water bath for anywhere from 5" to 40". This being said, we do save time on
anything over 20" in the water bath by using the Decloaker.  For the times
we use in the Decloaker, 2" to 4", it takes about 20" total time when you
count the time it takes to get up to pressure and then back down again.

In terms of quality, using the same HIER buffers, using the Decloaker is at
least as good as using a water bath in our experience.

If the cost is too high, try Cell Marque (1-(800)665-7284); they market an
electric pressure cooker with a built-in timer that's a dead ringer for the
Biocare Decloaking Chamber but less expensive.

To Biocare's credit, they are a somewhat new company that has been extremely
responsive to our needs; I highly recommend them.

I'd be happy to answer any other questions you might have.


Linda A. Sebree, HT
University of Wisconsin Hospital & Clinics
Immunohistochemistry/In Situ Hybridization Laboratory
D4/218-2472
600 Highland Avenue
Madison, WI  53792-2472


(608)265-6596
FAX: (608)263-1568

> -----Original Message-----
> From:	Sanders, Julie, VHACIN [SMTP:Julie.Sanders@med.va.gov]
> Sent:	Monday, December 13, 1999 2:17 PM
> To:	'histonet@pathology.swmed.edu'
> Subject:
>
>
> Has anyone used the Decloaking Chamber from BioCare in California?  If so,
> what were your results and is there any noticiable difference from using a
> mircrowave and pressure cooker?
> I am interested in trying this, but don't want the expense if the results
> are not better than what we are using now...(BioGenex Citra Retrieval
> solution 10X, 75ml in 675ml distilled H20)
> Thanks for the information,
> Julie
> Julie A. Sanders, BA, HT(ASCP)
> Supervisor, Anatomic Pathology/Administrative Office
> Cincinnati VA Medical Center
> Cincinnati, Ohio 45220
>