High Resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM) Guide and Basics

What is High Resolution Episcopic Microscopy(HREM)?

High Resolution Episcopic Microscopy is a technique for producing high contrast 3D image stacks of almost any sample. A sample is embedded in resin such as JB-4 (or Technovit) using a specific protocol.

The sample is then sectioned at 1-10 microns capturing each section through an episcopic microscope (zoom or compound) as it does so, without distortion or other artefacts.

(Diagram is not a literal image of the setup, the technique/system is more complex).

View HREM Dedicated Page

What Samples Can be Used with HREM?

HREM can be used in many applications and is particular good for morphology of denser tissue and bone, but is not limited to larger denser samples. Optical HREM instruments are capable of performing multi-fluorescence meaning you can image in lots of different channels and excitations, papers show the use of multiple fluorescence.

Optical HREM can scan up to 60mm XY (more on request) and 30-40mm (more on request) in the Z, meaning there is plenty of flexibility in imaging.

There are many samples compatible with HREM but some common examples include:

Mouse organs such as brains, kidneys, hearts etc.
Whole mouse embryos or pups.
Zebrafish embryos and organs.
Chicken embryos.
Agricultural specimens such as barley, citrus fruit etc.

View HREM Examples

Results

Standard HREM produces perfectly aligned image stacks which can be used as a volume. HREM images are white in the background, this can be easily inverted to represent a micro-ct style image.

Multiple fluorescence images will vary in colour but will usually be black background with excitation seen in monochrome (white intensity).

What Equipment is Needed?

HREM can be performed on our Micro or Ultra systems, they come ready made to image 3D samples with lots of extras and options.

Optical HREM Micro

Optical HREM micro system is a straightforward system ideal for small user groups. Perfect for a lower budget 3D imaging system for bioscience (compared to techniques of similar resolution).

View HREM Micro

Optical HREM Ultra

Optical HREM Ultra is the flagship model, with customisable features, designed for imaging labs and advanced users. Featuring and XY stage, larger platform and up to 4 samples in one run.

View HREM Ultra

Learn More

To learn more about HREM volume imaging or for information on models and features have a look at our dedicated HREM page.

Learn More

High Resolution Episcopic Microscopy (HREM) Guide and Basics

What is High Resolution Episcopic Microscopy(HREM)?

What Samples Can be Used with HREM?

Results

What Equipment is Needed?

Optical HREM Micro

Optical HREM Ultra

Learn More

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