ABSTRACT
In autoradiography, the radiolabelled tissue is itself the source of radiation. Autoradiography can be used to visualize specific cell types and cell components such as proteins, nucleic acids, membrane receptors, and neurotransmitters. Autoradiography is only one of several methods used to detect and measure radiation. High resolution autoradiography is a refined process that allows detection and analysis of nerve cells containing a specific neurotransmitter. The process optimizes the efficiency of the emulsion to record maximum radiation and still maintain a high degree of resolution. This is achieved by using low energy isotopes such as tritium whose emitting particles have limited travel in the emulsion yet high specific activity. The semi-thin sections are coated with a thin layer of emulsion. The image is developed by placing the emulsion-coated sections in developer to amplify the minute silver deposits into silver grain aggregates.
