Description
The process of ion-exchange was first observed by a British
chemist in 1850. Ion-exchange is a process, by which one type of ion is absorbed
into a solid material and replaced by an equivalent quantity of another ion of
the same charge. By using this process, we have formulated an advanced
decalcification system that removes calcium from bone quickly while leaving
superior cellular detail. The I.E.D. Unit incorporates a strong cation
ion-exchange resin in a weak acid solution to remove calcium ions from bone,
while replacing them with hydrogen ions. The ion-exchange process does not
require strong concentrated acid solutions as in traditional decalcification
methods, delicate cellular structures remain intact. This can be very important
for immunohistochemistry (IHC) procedures, especially for bone marrow. Over
decalcification can destroy morphology that may effect the final staining
quality and staining intensity for IHC staining. The ion exchange decal method
has been shown to provide the best tissue morphology and IHC staining when
compared to other conventional decal methods. Results were very similar to EDTA
methods, but much faster. Tissues can remain in the I.E.D. solution for longer
periods of time without destroying tissue morphology, eliminating the daily
solution change, thus reducing the amount of toxic
waste.