The way that we do it here with great results is to fill the coplin jar with
the antigen retrieval solution, place saran wrap over the jar secured with a
rubberband and place the whole thing into another container such as a large
beaker filled with water about 2/3 the way to the top of the coplin jar and
microwave.  I have gone for 10 min straight without any problems and with
beautiful results.
Jennifer

Jennifer Berger
Senior Technical Associate
Lovelace Respiratory Research Institute
Albuquerque, NM
(505)845-1122; (505)845-1225
jberger@lrri.org

> -----Original Message-----
> From:	ThaxtonPM@aol.com [SMTP:ThaxtonPM@aol.com]
> Sent:	Thursday, November 11, 1999 8:00 PM
> To:	cbennett@lrri.org; histonet@pathology.swmed.edu
> Subject:	Re: Need Antigen Retrieval Help
>
> Hi Catherine,
>   The easiest way to microwave AR is to watch the coplin jar while
> microwaving on high heat. When you see the solution bubble, stop the
> microwave and check the temperature (also record the time that it took to
> get
> to temp). Microwave again on medium heat, and check the temperature at
> each
> interval to make sure the temperature is holding. It is best to do this
> using
> water to begin with, and always make sure you have the same number of
> slides
> in the coplin jar each time.
> Once you get the procedure standardized with the microwave you are using,
> you
> should be ok.
>
>
> okay, back in my corner now,
>         Phyllis