Electron microscopy has used hazardous chemicals for decades. But it turns out that ordinary espresso can be an effective and non-toxic alternative.
Elchi.az reports that a study by Austrian scientists has shown that coffee can stain biological samples for transmission electron microscopy with a quality comparable to the “gold standard” – uranyl acetate. The study was published in the journal Methods.
Transmission electron microscopy allows to study the internal structure of cells with nanometer resolution, Planet Today reports. However, biological tissues are primarily composed of light elements – carbon, oxygen, hydrogen and nitrogen, and they have virtually no interaction with electron beams. Without any special professional processing, the image is practically contrastless.
To make cell structures visible, samples are usually impregnated with heavy metal salts. The most common compound remains uranyl acetate, a uranium-based substance that readily interacts with membranes and proteins.
However, it is toxic to the kidneys and radioactive, requiring strict safety measures and expensive disposal. Many laboratories have banned this substance.
Experts have determined that coffee may be a safe alternative after observing coffee grounds settling on the edges of glasses.
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