A new rapid method for collection and preparation of cell suspensions for electrom microscopy

Summary We describe a new rapid and simple method for collection and preparation of cell suspensions for electron microscopy; the cells are prefixed with glutaraldehyde in their culture medium, and are then compacted on a filter disc. Post-fixation in osmium, staining and dehydration are performed by transferring the filter disc and the cell pellet from one solution to the next. The pellet is easily separated from the filter disc just before treatment in propylene oxide. This method preserves the fine structure as well as the classical technique. Advantages are that numerous cells have the same orientation in the sections and that many samples can be taken in a very short time.Acknowledgments. The authors are indebted to Prof. H. Leclerc, Director of I.N.S.E.R.M. laboratory U 146 in which part of this work has been performed, and to Dr J.F. Dubremetz, Dr G. Prensier and Dr P.A. Trinel for their advices.