Cutting Thick Sections Using a Vibratome

Sectioning with a vibrating microtome (vibratome) is a valuable procedure for generating thick sections that can be used for immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. It is particularly useful for revealing histological and 3D detail in tissues and embryos that have been subjected to various whole-mount histological procedures such as β-galactosidase and alkaline phosphatase staining, and fluorescent and DAB (diaminobenzidine) immunostaining. Vibratome sectioning does not involve any harsh organic solvents and is therefore suited for processing specimens stained with fluorescent antibodies or dyes. In addition, live tissue can be sectioned for subsequent culture, manipulation, and live imaging. Very few materials are required for vibratome sectioning, and it is a relatively straightforward procedure that is quickly mastered. This protocol describes basic vibratome sectioning that can be used for any staining procedure typically used in histology.