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Dr Jones is a cancer Biologist investigating the effects of “ImmunoBoost,” a new compound under study, for its potential to enhance T cell activity against tumor cells. Tumor-bearing mice received varying doses of this drug, and tumor samples were collected at different stages. You are his students and have been assigned the task of looking at, and interpreting the tumor slides under the Electron Microscope. 

                                                           Image by freepik

Dr. Jones greets a group of students standing near a compact yet specialized lab area. On the bench, thin sections of tumor tissue have been carefully laid out, all properly labeled. The smell of disinfectant lingers, and posters outlining lab safety protocols are pasted on the walls. 

Prof. Jones: ‘Good morning, everyone. Today, we’re continuing our investigation into ‘ImmunoBoost’. We’ll be looking at these thin sections of tumor tissue, collected from mice at different treatment stages.’

You glance towards the adjacent room and spot a large instrument.

You: ‘This microscope is much larger and more complex than the light microscope we used previously.’

Prof. Jones: ‘That’s right! Due to its size and unique requirements—such as vacuum and isolation from vibration—this laboratory is designed to accommodate it. So, before we start examining these samples, it’s essential you understand why we’re choosing to use an electron microscope. 

Let’s see whether you recall what an electron microscope is and how it differs from other microscopes.’