STUDIES ON THE PROBLEM OF PRESERVATION OF MYELIN SHEATH ULTRASTRUCTURE: EVALUATION OF FIXATION, DEHYDRATION, AND EMBEDDING TECHNIQUES

Abstract

Currently accepted methods of tissue preparation for electron microscopy result in alterations of myelinated nerve fibers. In an attempt to minimize distortion of myelin, various fixation techniques, dehydration schedules, and embedding methods have been evaluated. It was found that the major damage to myelinated nerves occurs in the embedding procedure. A technique for embedding nerve tissue using the polyester Vestopal W is described which was found to result in improved preservation of myelin.