Preparation of biomolecule gel matrices for electron microscopy

Ultramicroscopy. 2008 Mar;108(4):309-13. doi: 10.1016/j.ultramic.2007.04.004. Epub 2007 Apr 21.

Abstract

We report a new sample preparation method that allows the direct transmission electron microscopy evaluation of the architectural characteristics of biomolecules entrapped in gel matrices. We demonstrate that this sample preparation technique can be used for the identification and ultrastructural characterization of liposomes, collagen I and collagen III embedded in gel matrices, and has the potential to be useful for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) characterization of other biomolecule-gel matrix systems.

MeSH terms

  • Biocompatible Materials / chemistry*
  • Collagen Type I / ultrastructure
  • Collagen Type III / ultrastructure
  • Gels
  • Liposomes / chemistry
  • Microscopy, Electron, Transmission / methods*

Substances

  • Biocompatible Materials
  • Collagen Type I
  • Collagen Type III
  • Gels
  • Liposomes