This division of the Imaging Core provides investigators with a full range of electron microscopy services — from expert advice to sample preparation and observation in high quality instruments.
Some experiments require a greater resolving power (or “higher magnification”) than is possible with light (photon)-based microscopes. Since the wavelengths of electrons are much shorter than those of visible light, the EM makes it possible to examine the ultrastructure of biological materials (such as microorganisms and cells), a variety of large molecules, medical biopsy samples, as well as metals and the characteristics of various surfaces.
Electron Microscopy services comprise both transmission and scanning electron microscopy (TEM and SEM).
TEM services include normal processing of samples, thick or ultra-thin sectioning, staining, and image acquisition in the microscope. Sub-cellular localization of antigens by immunogold labeling can also be performed.
SEM services include assistance with sample preparation, training in the use of the microscope, and elemental microanalysis.