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TEM stains

UranyLess and lead citrate stains for TEM

UranyLess is a convenient, ready to use TEM staining substitute for uranyl acetate delivering similar results without the problems with restrictions, toxicity and waste elimination procedures associated with uranyl acetate.

UranyLess is a proprietary mix of multiple lanthanides which comes as a ready to use aqueous solution. It has great affinity for biological material having been tested on a wide range of biological tissue, both animal and plant. UranyLess staining solution is ideal for ultra-fine sections and negative staining. After only one minute of contact, sections or deposits are stained sufficiently to provide good contrast for subsequent TEM imaging. If needed, lead citrate staining  is recommended to enhance contrast – Please see below.

UranyLess is available in an alternative packaging size of 200ml for use with the Leica EM Stain automatic stainer.

Lead citrate stain. Although UranyLess has a strong contasting effect, the use of lead citrate stain is recommended to enhance the contrast following the classic staining protocol according to Reynolds (1963). We offer a ready to use 3% lead citrate staining solution in an Airless bottle which is filled without air and delivers lead citrate droplets through a push-pump system, thus eliminating CO2 contamination.

A fast-acting, non-radioactive lanthanide staining mix

UranyLess is supplied in an Airless bottle with a content of 30ml. The bottle is filled without air and delivers droplets of the solution through a push-pump system, which eliminates CO2 contamination.  30ml is typically enough to stain approximately 1,500 TEM grids. UranyLess solution in an Airless bottle has a long shelf life, eliminates CO2 contaminations and avoids waste by delivery in droplets. The pH level of UranyLess is 6.8 to 7.

 

Staining protocol:

  • Place a droplet of UranyLess stain on parafilm or a hydrophobic slide
  • Place the TEM grid on the UranyLess droplet for 1-2 minutes
  • Blot the grid with filter paper
  • Wash the grid in distilled water
  • Allow the grid with sample to dry

Ordering information: