Once my cells are labeled, how do I prepare them for confocal microscopy?
Usually, samples prepared for routine epifluorescence are fine for confocal microscopy. It is very important that the preparations be as thin as possible. If too much coverslipping medium is used, the high NA (oil immersion) objectives will not be able to focus. Approximately 15ยต of mounting medium is required for a standard coverslip. For optimal results, the cells should be cultured on the coverslip.
