High resolution episcopic microscopy (HREM) enables the generation of histological-quality 3D images from any tissue sample. In this technique, fixed tissue samples are embedded in a hard plastic resin, which enables sections as thin as 1 µm to be accurately removed. A wide range of sample sizes, such as E9.5-E18.5 mouse embryos or adult mouse hearts, can be accommodated in the system.

By sequentially imaging the block face during the sectioning process, a comprehensive stack of accurately aligned images is acquired, documenting the 3D structure of the sample. The cutting and imaging processes are completely automated, allowing high throughput sample analysis with minimal hands-on time for the operator. The 3D datasets produced by HREM can be manipulated using computer software to virtually section the sample in any plane with relatively little loss of resolution, or to produce 3D volume-rendered images. The data can also be segmented using Amira software to visualise the precise 3D shape of any structure within the sample.

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Kalisch-Smith et al. Nat Commun. 2021. doi: 10.1038/s41467-021-23660-5.

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