Cryo-SEM and subsequent TEM examinations of identical neural tissue specimen

Abstract

Low temperature scanning electron microscopy of frozen-fractured specimens under cryo-protecting, non-dehydrating, and non-etching "wet" conditions, that is, direct cryo-SEM, was followed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) with the same neural tissue specimens. In comparison to replica TEM, direct cryo-SEM can obtain images with a smooth gradation of contrast. The major advantage of direct cryo-SEM combined with TEM was that time was saved in SEM preparation. It had a high potentiality at a wide-range survey of multi-dimensional specimen structures with less-artifacts. Because the specimens were prepared as quickly as possible under "wet" conditions, the target structures could be examined under lower through higher magnifications. In the present study, neuronal and glial elements, such as plasma membranes and cell organelles that include the synaptic vesicles, were localized on the fractured surface. In subsequent TEM examination, it was confirmed that the underlying internal structures could be further characterized from cytological as well as molecular biological aspects. In addition, direct cryo-SEM distinctively demonstrated small intra-membrane particles (ca. 10 nm in diameter). However, due to electron lucency, they could not be confirmed in the re-processed TEM specimens. Applying the present protocol, stereological and internal architectural examinations of the neural tissues have been simultaneously conducted at ultra-fine levels.