Dear Andrew,

We have supplied our Bright Model OTF/AS/D for sectioning frozen and wax
specimens this is possible with this cryostat due to the design of the
specimen temperature control(D). This cryostat can also be used for wax
while the microtome chamber is below freezing and the specimen temperature
control(D) set for above freezing temperatures say +10 degrees C or more.

We also manufacture as an option whereby the microtome can be removed from
the cryostat and used as a normal microtome on the bench.

I hope this is of use.

Best Regards

Alan Bright

Bright Instrument Co.Ltd.
St Margaret's Way
Huntingdon
Cambridgeshire
PE29 6EU
England

Tel No:+44 (0)1480 454528
Fax No:+44 (0)1480 456031
Email: AlanBright@brightinstruments.com
Web Site: www.brightinstruments.com



-----Original Message-----
From: Andrew Gray [mailto:andrew.gray@vcp.monash.edu.au]
Sent: 01 May 2001 01:36
To: histonet@pathology.swmed.edu
Subject: Cutting paraffin blocks in a cryostat


Hello Histonetters,

A question from a newbie to the list.   I was wondering if anyone knew
if it is possible to cut paraffin blocks in a cryostat.   I have access
to a Leica CM 1850 cryostat and I wish to examine some soft tissues of
rats.   Paraffin is preferable for handling and storage reasons, but I
don't have access to a standard microtome.   The mechanics of a cryostat
seem essentially the same, but I was wondering about the practicalities
of using it in this way (e.g. the appropriateness of the blade, holding
the block in position with the adhesive, temperature etc.).

Thanks in advance,

Andrew Gray
B.Pharm, B.PharmSc(Hons)
Ph.D student
Victorian College of Pharmacy
Melbourne, Australia
andrew.gray@vcp.monash.edu.au