TEM stains

UranyLess and lead citrate stains for TEM

UranyLess is a convenient, ready to use TEM staining substitute for uranyl acetate delivering similar results without the problems with restrictions, toxicity and waste elimination procedures associated with uranyl acetate.

UranyLess is a proprietary mix of multiple lanthanides which comes as a ready to use aqueous solution. It has great affinity for biological material having been tested on a wide range of biological tissue, both animal and plant. UranyLess staining solution is ideal for ultra-fine sections and negative staining. After only one minute of contact, sections or deposits are stained sufficiently to provide good contrast for subsequent TEM imaging. If needed, lead citrate staining  is recommended to enhance contrast – Please see below.

UranyLess is available in an alternative packaging size of 200ml for use with the Leica EM Stain automatic stainer.

Lead citrate stain. Although UranyLess has a strong contasting effect, the use of lead citrate stain is recommended to enhance the contrast following the classic staining protocol according to Reynolds (1963). We offer a ready to use 3% lead citrate staining solution in an Airless bottle which is filled without air and delivers lead citrate droplets through a push-pump system, thus eliminating CO2 contamination.