In histopathology, tissues must undergo timely and effective fixation prior to subsequent embedding and sectioning. Tissue fixation functions to preserve the inherent morphology and structure of tissues and cells, prevent bacterial erosion and autolysis of tissue cells, retain intrinsic cellular substances, coagulate intracellular proteins, minimize or terminate endogenous and exogenous enzymatic reactions, and keep cellular or tissue substances largely consistent with their in‑vivo state. It also hardens tissues to facilitate trimming. For certain infectious specimens, fixation prevents pathogen spread and preserves gross specimens. Finally, fixation improves staining performance.
Adipose tissue contains abundant lipid droplets. Without timely and effective fixation, adipocyte membranes are prone to rupture during paraffin‑embedded tissue preparation, resulting in incomplete adipocyte architecture. Lipid‑droplet displacement frequently occurs during cryosection preparation and fat‑specific staining.
Adipose‑tissue Fixative is specially formulated for fixation of adipose tissue. It enables prompt and effective fat fixation to resolve the above‑mentioned histological‑preparation issues and produce high‑quality paraffin sections and frozen sections. This product mainly consists of formaldehyde, glacial acetic acid and a small amount of ethanol.
This reagent is for research use only and is not intended for clinical diagnosis or other applications.
Operating Procedures (For Reference Only)
Immediately place freshly‑harvested adipose tissue into adipose‑tissue fixative. The fixative volume shall fully immerse the tissue and allow free movement of the specimen, generally no less than 10 times the tissue volume. Owing to the low density of adipose tissue, specimens tend to float on the liquid surface upon immersion. Place an appropriate amount of absorbent cotton on top inside the container to submerge the tissue until it sinks to the bottom for adequate fixation. Fix at room temperature for 12‑24 hours in general.
Precautions
1. Use in a well‑ventilated environment with proper personal protection and avoid inhalation.
2. Use sufficient volume of fixative and choose an adequately‑sized container to ensure free suspension of tissue without compression; otherwise, tissue structural integrity will be compromised.
3. Tighten the cap promptly after use to prevent volatilization of active ingredients.
4. Wear a lab coat and disposable gloves for your safety and health during operation.
5. Use the reagent as soon as possible after opening to avoid compromised experimental performance.
