A Simple and Quick Method for Decalcification Using Mouse Tail as a Model for Preparation of Lymphedema Study.

The disadvantage of 10% EDTA decalcification is a long time-consuming. It needs to identify a quick and straightforward decalcification method when the preparation of lymphedema models using mouse tail which was a sample of bone wrapped in other tissues. In the present study, mouse tail samples were decalcified in 10% EDTA at 25, 37, and 42°C, respectively, with continuous shaking (150 rpm/min). The histologic integrity of samples was evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin staining, and the preservation of antigenicity was tested by either immunohistochemistry or immunofluorescence. The decalcification was distinctly accelerated by temperature. Results of hematoxylin and eosin staining were similar among different temperature groups. Immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence staining revealed almost no signals in samples decalcified at 42°C for 1 week. Clear signals were detected when samples were decalcified at 37 and 25°C.