Description 3

Prof. Jones: ‘Precisely. SEM provides a 3D view of a sample’s surface, and TEM helps us examine internal structures in thin sections. Think about our ImmunoBoost research and what we are trying to investigate. If we want to explore subcellular changes deep within the tumor tissue, we’d typically use TEM. However, if our main goal were to study the exterior morphology of cells or surfaces, SEM would be the better choice.”

Michael: ‘So if we wanted to see whether ImmunoBoost changes how T cells attach to the tumor’s outer membrane, we might opt for SEM?”

Prof. Jones: ‘Exactly!’

Prof. Jones: “Take a moment to consider which choice best describes when SEM is the optimal instrument. Once you decide, we’ll talk about the preparation steps and how they differ from TEM protocols, including the importance of proper fixation, dehydration, and sputter-coating methods.’

To help you decide you may want to spend some time watching this video: 

Electron microscope (SEM)

Electron microscope (TEM)

You: ‘In which situations would you use SEM instead of TEM?’