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Electron Microscopy

Preparation of Neural Tissues for Electron Microscopy

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Neuroanatomical Tract-Tracing Methods

Abstract

The electron microscope is essential in experimental neuroanatomy for the detailed study of synaptic organization. Its great value is based on the fact that it allows the recognition of synaptic junctions and often the identification of the neurons participating in the synapses. However, the identification of different types of synaptic junctions and the classification of neurons usually depends on the regular occurrence of subtle differences in the shapes and internal structures of processes from different types of neurons. These differences are observed consistently only in specimens that are well-preserved; poor preservation obscures cytological detail and renders results less reliable and interpretation more difficult. Thus, good preservation of tissue structure is a necessity for electron microscopic neuroanatomy.

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© 1981 Plenum Press

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Friedrich, V.L., Mugnaini, E. (1981). Electron Microscopy. In: Heimer, L., Robards, M.J. (eds) Neuroanatomical Tract-Tracing Methods. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-3189-6_10

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4613-3189-6_10

  • Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA

  • Print ISBN: 978-1-4613-3191-9

  • Online ISBN: 978-1-4613-3189-6

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