Instrumentation for Microtomy: Glass Slides

The page below is a sample from the LabCE course Microtomy of Paraffin-Embedded Tissue. Access the complete course and earn ASCLS P.A.C.E.-approved continuing education credits by subscribing online.

Learn more about Microtomy of Paraffin-Embedded Tissue (online CE course)
Instrumentation for Microtomy: Glass Slides

Selection of glass slides on which tissue sections will be placed is based on the application of use as follows:
  • Glass slides, plain
    • 1.5 mm thick
    • Uncharged
    • Must be kept clean and free of fingerprints
    • Inexpensive
    • Can be used for routine staining procedures
  • Glass slides, positively charged
    • Tissue sections electrostatically adhere to the slide
    • No water bath adhesive needed, no background stain, reduces tissue loss
    • Great for silver stains, enzyme and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining, and DNA probes, which are prone to tissue loss/wash off
    • Expensive
    • Charge will decrease over time