Osmium tetroxide solution, for electron microscopy, 4% in H2O

Application

Osmium tetroxide solution has been used as a fixative in scanning and transmission electron microscopy.

Biochem/physiol Actions

Osmium tetroxide is also referred to as osmium and is mainly used as a secondary fixative of tissues. The molecule reacts with lipid moieties and is responsible for the oxidation of unsaturated bonds of fatty acids. This reaction adds density and contrast to biological samples. In normal tissues, presence of osmium results in intense black staining which can be viewed by normal eye. In addition, it can be used as a mordant (a molecule which combines with stain or dye at later stages) in electron microscopy, thereby enhancing lead staining.

Other Notes

Due to the hazardous nature of osmium tetroxide, it is recommended to use an ampule opener when using this chemical.

Packaging

5 mL in ampule10 mL in ampule