Preparing Subbed Slides For Sections

(Source: K. Larison from Zebrafish Book 5th Edition)

For most purposes (e.g. immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization), Vectabond (Vector Laboratories, 800 227 6666) works well for coating slides. For epon and paraffin embedded sections, gelatin subbed slides may be more appropriate. To prepare subbed slides:

1. Soak new microslides overnight in acid cleaning solution (e.g. chromium sulfuric acid.) A strong solution of Micro can be substituted.

2. Wash slides thoroughly in running tap water and rinse in several changes of dH2O.

3. Transfer slides into slide carriers and dip three times in the gelatin solution.

4. To avoid streaking, rap the slide carrier vigorously on a paper towel on the counter top following the last immersion.

5. Drain well and dry overnight at 40ºC.

Gelatin subbing solution:

0.5% gelatin
0.05% CrK(SO4)x12H2O.