Ateneo - UPO

Introduction to high-magnification structural analysis using a transmission electron microscope. Description of the instruments and methods employed in ultrastructural diagnostics.
Main applications in histopathology.

A copy of the lecture in PowerPoint format, including additional notes, will be provided at the end of the course.

This module aims to provide an understanding of the operating principles of transmission and scanning electron microscopes, as well as the techniques for preparing specimens for ultrastructural examination—with a particular focus on procedures for sectioning, staining, and immunostaining. Furthermore, it seeks to provide information on the applications of electron microscopy, ranging from the characterization of neoplasms to the study of functional disorders and infectious diseases.

Test with multiple choice questions, in written or oral form.
Collective discussion of the test results.

INTRODUCTION: Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM).
OPERATING PRINCIPLES of TEM and SEM.
PREPARATION OF CYTOLOCIC AND HISTOLOGICAL SAMPLES: fixation methods, post-fixation with osmium tetroxide, dehydration, and resin embedding; sectioning of semithin and thin sections using an ultramicrotome; staining methods.
PRINCIPLES OF IMMUNO-ELECTRON MICROSCOPY.
NORMAL CELLULAR ULTRASTRUCTURE.
ULTRASTRUCTURAL DIAGNOSTICS APPLICATIVE ASPECT IN:
1) Infectious diseases
2) Non-neoplastic renal pathology
3) Amyloidosis
4) Rare neoplasms
5) Rare congenital diseases