Tissue clearing reagents

Transform opaque specimens into transparent samples for high-resolution deep imaging. Part of a portfolio of over 250 application reagents with 4.5k+ citations, these clearing reagents preserve delicate tissue architecture and fluorescent signals. They provide the optical clarity required for 3D microscopy in IHC, neuroscience, and cancer research, enabling researchers to map complex structures in intact volumes.

Browse all tissue clearing reagents

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Tissue clearing reagents are designed to make biological specimens transparent, facilitating in-depth imaging and analysis by reducing light scattering without altering the underlying structures. These reagents are crucial for researchers exploring the intricate architecture of biological tissues, particularly in the context of immunohistochemistry (IHC) and other imaging applications. We offer a selection of tissue clearing reagents that ensure high-quality, reproducible results, aiding in the visualization of molecular markers and cellular interactions within thick tissue sections and whole organs.

Key features

Enhanced clarity

Our reagents effectively clear tissues, allowing for improved light penetration and imaging depth.

Compatibility

Works seamlessly with various fluorescence markers and antibodies, preserving the fluorescence through the clearing process.

Minimized tissue damage

Formulated to maintain the structural integrity of tissues without causing significant shrinkage or distortion.

Scalability

Suitable for both small tissue sections and large, whole-organ clearing projects.

Specifications

Formulation

Ready-to-use solutions and kits optimized for a variety of tissue types, including neural, soft, and hard tissues.

Application time

Varies from a few hours to several days, depending on the tissue size and type.

Benefits

Streamlined workflow: Reduces the complexity of tissue preparation for microscopy, saving time and reducing the need for extensive protocol optimization.
Broad application: Effective for use in 3D imaging technologies such as light-sheet fluorescence microscopy (LSFM) and multiphoton fluorescence microscopy.

Applications and use cases

Neuroscience research

Essential for projects that require visualization of neural pathways and connections in large volumes of brain tissue.

Cancer research

Enhances the ability to study tumor microenvironments in three dimensions, providing insights into the interaction between cancer cells and surrounding tissues.

Developmental biology

Allows for the comprehensive study of developmental processes across entire organisms or sizable organ structures.

Pathology

Facilitates detailed examination of pathological samples, improving the diagnostic capabilities by enabling three-dimensional reconstructions of biopsy samples.

FAQ

Can tissue clearing reagents be used with fluorescently labeled antibodies?

Yes, our tissue clearing reagents are designed to be compatible with fluorescent labeling, including those used in immunohistochemistry (IHC). The reagents maintain the fluorescence of labeled antibodies, allowing for accurate imaging of target antigens.

Are there any tissue types that are not recommended for use with clearing reagents?

While our reagents are versatile, certain extremely dense or mineralized tissues, like mature bone, may require specialized protocols or additional pretreatment for optimal clearing.

How long do tissues need to be incubated with clearing solutions?

Incubation times can vary depending on the tissue type and size. Smaller samples may clear within a few hours, whereas larger or denser samples might require longer time scales. Detailed guidelines are provided with each reagent kit to ensure effective clearing.

Is specialized equipment required to use tissue-clearing reagents?

No specialized equipment is required for the clearing process, although high-performance imaging systems, such as light-sheet microscopes, are recommended to fully exploit the increased transparency and depth of imaging achievable with cleared tissues.