Abstract
The histological use of laboratory microwaves was proposed by Mayers in 1970. Since then, microwaves have become widely used in histology laboratories for fixation, decalcification, and processing; however, protocols must be carefully optimized to ensure the maintenance of optimal cellular morphology and antigenicity. In the current study, we sought to decrease laboratory turnaround time and optimize specimen preservation conditions by using microwave fixation. Mouse and rat tissues were harvested and divided into two groups (A and B). Tissues in group A were fixed for 24 h in 10% neutral buffered formalin (NBF), whereas tissues in group B were fixed for 2 h in 10% NBF before being microwaved at 50°C for varying times. Tissues from the two groups were compared by a pathologist. We found that the optimal microwave formalin-fixation times necessary to preserve morphology were 29 min for mouse tissues and 30 min for rat tissues. These times allowed specimens to be placed on a processor 3 h after tissue collection and processed for embedding the following day. We also determined optimal times for microwave decalcification of mouse and rat sternums and femurs. Decalcification of rat femurs with the combined use of microwave fixation and decalcification saved nearly 2 days of specimen turnaround times. To assess the effect of microwave fixation on antigenicity, rat intestine samples from groups A and B were stained with Ki-67 and caspase 3 antibodies. When compared with tissues that had been bench-fixed for 24 h, microwave-fixed tissues showed no loss of antigenicity. We conclude that rodent fixation and decalcification times can be considerably reduced with the aid of a microwave, thereby decreasing study turnaround times, minimizing costs, and improving efficiency. Microwave fixation would be a valuable investment for any laboratory seeking to save time while maintaining optimal cellular morphology and antigenicity. (The J Histotechnol 32(4):190–192, 2009)
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