IMMUNOELECTRON MICROSCOPY Meaning and
Definition
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Immunoelectron microscopy is a specialized technique employed in the field of biology and medicine to visualize and localize specific molecules or antigens within a cell or tissue sample using electron microscopes. This technique combines the principles of immunohistochemistry and electron microscopy to achieve high-resolution and specific visualization of the target molecules.
The procedure begins with the fixation of the sample, followed by embedding it in a resin block. Thin sections of the sample are then obtained and placed on a grid. These thin sections are incubated with specific antibodies that are tagged with electron-dense markers such as gold nanoparticles. These antibodies bind specifically to the target molecules, forming an immune complex.
Next, the grid with the labeled sections is exposed to an electron beam, and the scattered electrons interact with the gold nanoparticles. This interaction causes the gold particles to appear as dark spots within the electron micrograph, providing information regarding the localization and distribution of the target molecules within the sample.
Immunoelectron microscopy allows researchers to study the intricate details of cell structure and molecular interactions at a subcellular level. It is particularly useful in elucidating the localization of membrane proteins, intracellular signaling molecules, and viral antigens. This technique has significant applications in various fields of study, including immunology, cell biology, virology, and pathology, providing valuable insights into cellular processes and disease mechanisms.
Common Misspellings for IMMUNOELECTRON MICROSCOPY
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Etymology of IMMUNOELECTRON MICROSCOPY
The word "immunoelectron microscopy" can be broken down into its components: "immuno-" and "electron microscopy".
1. "Immun-" is a prefix derived from the Latin word "immunis", meaning "exempt" or "free from". It entered the English language in the early 20th century and is used to indicate immunity or protection against a specific substance, usually with reference to the immune system.
2. "Electron microscopy" is a compound term that consists of "electron" and "microscopy". "Electron" refers to the subatomic particle with a negative charge, discovered in the late 19th century, while "microscopy" refers to the technique of using microscopes to magnify and visualize objects that are too small to be seen with the naked eye.
Therefore, "immunoelectron microscopy" combines the concepts of immunity and electron microscopy.
