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Methods for array tomography with correlative light and electron microscopy

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Abstract

The three-dimensional ultra-structure is the comprehensive structure that cannot be observed from a two-dimensional electron micrograph. Array tomography is one method for three-dimensional electron microscopy. In this method, to obtain consecutive cross sections of tissue, connected consecutive sections of a resin block are mounted on a flat substrate, and these are observed with scanning electron microscopy. Although array tomography requires some bothersome manual procedures to prepare specimens, a recent study has introduced some techniques to ease specimen preparation. In addition, array tomography has some advantages compared with other three-dimensional electron microscopy techniques. For example, sections on the substrate are stored semi-eternally, so they can be observed at different magnifications. Furthermore, various staining methods, including post-embedding immunocytochemistry, can be adopted. In the present review, the preparation of specimens for array tomography, including ribbon collection and the staining method, and the adaptability for correlative light and electron microscopy are discussed.

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Acknowledgements

We thank Edanz Group (http://www.edanzediting.com/ac) for editing a draft of this manuscript.

Funding

This study was supported in part by Grants-in-Aid for Scientific Research (C) from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science [16k08480 to H.Y.], The Science Research Promotion Fund from the Proportion and Mutual Aid Corporation for Private Schools of Japan [to T.K.].

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  1. Department of Anatomy and Cell Science, Kansai Medical University, Shinmachi 2-5-1, Hirakata, Osaka, Japan

    Taro Koike & Hisao Yamada

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  1. Taro Koike
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  2. Hisao Yamada
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Correspondence to Taro Koike.

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Koike, T., Yamada, H. Methods for array tomography with correlative light and electron microscopy. Med Mol Morphol 52, 8–14 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00795-018-0194-y

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