A rapid method of staining ultrathin sections for surgical pathology TEM with the use of the microwave oven.

A rapid microwave method is described for staining ultrathin sections for surgical pathology transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Three sets of Epon sections of human heart biopsy were mounted on unsupported 200-mesh Rhodium-coated copper grids and were stained with uranyl acetate (UA) and lead citrate. The first set of grids was stained for 15 seconds in each solution with the aid of a microwave oven, and the second set was stained routinely for 30 minutes in UA and 10 minutes in lead citrate at room temperature. The third control set was stained for 15 seconds in each solution without microwave bombardment. The overall image quality of the TEM micrographs generated by the "quick-stained" microwave enhanced sections was better than routine stained and control sections. The microwave-treated sections have more contrast, less artifacts in the form of precipitate, and a more uniform overall staining.