UranyLess – Protocols of Use: Negative Staining

EMS Catalog #22409

Negative staining is a very useful technique in electron microscopy. It allows characterization of isolated particles of morphology as bacteria, virus, protein, nanoparticles, liposomes, exosomes, etc.

Staining Protocol #1:

1. On a piece of parafilm or any other hydrophobic carrier, place a drop of your solution (~ 10µl) and a UranyLess drop.
2. Using our fine tweezers, place your sample drop on a formvar-carbon coated grid. for about 1 minute.
3. Blot your grid using filter paper.
4. Place your grid on the UranyLess solution for 1 minute.
5. Blot, let it dry for 5 minutes and observe under the microscope.

Technical Tip:

• If the staining is too intense, wash with room temperature water for 1 minute.

Staining Protocol #2 (Debra M. Townley, Baylor College of Medicine):

1. One drop of suspension of 300 mesh formvar coated grids – 30 minutes
2. Wick away excess suspension with paper arrow (Watman No.1)
3. Place one drop of Uranyless on the grid before it is completely dry
4. Stain for 3 minutes
5. Wick away excess stain with paper arrow (Watman No.1)
6. Allow the grids(s) to dry completely before examination on the TEM
7. Times can be altered (suspension time, stain time) to suit the "look" you desire

Product Information

UranyLess, Substitute for Uranyl Acetate