Abstract
Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the isolation, rapid freezing, and freeze-fracture methods for frog retinal photoreceptors. The freeze-fracture technique involves four essential steps: (1) rapid freezing of the specimen; (2) specimen fracture; (3) heavy metal replication of the exposed fracture surfaces; followed by deposition of a reinforcing film such as carbon; and (4) recovery of the replica, which is then examined in a transmission or scanning electron microscope. Freeze-fracture methods are employed in morphological studies when one wishes to preserve a structure in a state that most closely approximates its native configuration. Fixation of the structure is achieved by specimen freezing. Specimen preparation is primarily dictated by experimental objective. Specimen freezing rates are determined by the mass, geometry, and material properties of the sample and supporting planchette and by the freezing method employed.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
