How to cut sections from tissue embedded in paraffin blocks
1. Chill paraffin blocks to make sectioning easier
2. Warm water bath to 40C
3. Prepare the microtome for sectioning
4. Insert the blade into the holder
5. Ensure and secure and set the blade clearance angle and section thickness
6. Insert the paraffin block and adjust the positioning
7. Cut a few initial thin sections to check the position of your block and adjust if necessary
8. Trim the tissue block to expose the tissue surface
9. Section the tissue at a thickness of about 5 microns
10. Float the tissue sections on the water bath and allow any wrinkles to disappear
11. Separate each section in a ribbon by gently tapping then divide with a pair of forceps
12. Label the slides with the appropriate information
13. Pick the tissue sections from the water bath, trying to avoid getting any air bubbles underneath
14. Dry the slides in an oven overnight at 37C