Generating high-quality electron microscopy images of the skin and keratinocytes can be challenging. Here we describe a simple protocol for scanning electron microscopy (SEM) of murine skin. The protocol enables characterization of the ultrastructure of the epidermis, dermis, hair follicles, basement membrane, and cell-cell junctions. We detail the specific steps for sample preparation and highlight the critical need for proper orientation of the sample for ultrathin sectioning. We also describe the isolation and preparation of primary keratinocyte monolayers for SEM. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Biswas et al. (2021).
Publication Type
Journal Article
Date of Publication
September 17, 2021
Journal
STAR protocols
Volume/Issue
2/3
ISSN
2666-1667