X-Ray Microanalysis of Growth Cartilage After Rapid Freezing, Low Temperature Freeze Drying and Embedding in Resin

Authors

J. Appleton, University of Liverpool

Abstract

This paper reviews the work undertaken on the X-ray microanalysis of growth cartilage particularly in relation to matrix calcification. Attention is focused on the methodology available to accurately localize and retain the elements of interest. A method is described which involves rapid freezing, low temperature freeze drying in a custom built device, and embedding in Spurr resin. The results show that little tissue damage occurs and that elements of physiological interest are accurately localized at the sub-cellular level. Where damage occurs to chondrocytes as a result of freezing, however, dense intra mitochondrial granules are seen suggesting a phase transformation takes place resulting in the precipitation of calcium phosphate. Further improvements may be made in retaining the more labile elements such as K by using resins which polymerize at low temperature.

Recommended Citation

Appleton, J. (1987) "X-Ray Microanalysis of Growth Cartilage After Rapid Freezing, Low Temperature Freeze Drying and Embedding in Resin," Scanning Microscopy: Vol. 1: No. 3, Article 28.
Available at: https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/microscopy/vol1/iss3/28