A technique for the fast sampling of biological tissues for electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy

A simple technique for the fast sampling of biological tissues for electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy is described. By using tube-like stainless steel cutter, a cylindrical piece of tissue is dissected free; while holding the sample and cutter on a silicone rubber cutting base, the sample is transferred directly into the EPR test tube by pushing the tube into the instrument. The main features of the technique are its simplicity, speed, elimination of the necessity to manipulate frozen tissue (e.g., breaking, chopping, etc.), precise information on the sample volume, the ability to adjust sample size according to need, and avoidance of the use any foreign compounds (such as spin traps). The technique has been successfully applied to the EPR detection of free radicals in rabbit spinal cord exposed to ischemia. It can be easily modified for manipulation with samples in an inert atmosphere.