Rapid decalcification using microwaves for in situ hybridization in skeletal tissues

In situ hybridization histochemistry is the sole tool available for detecting the localization and expression of specific RNA on histological sections under various in vivo conditions. For this paper, we examined the effect of microwave exposure on the time needed for decalcification of skeletal tissues and on the preservation of sensitivity for hybridization signals. Our data show that the use of microwave decalcification reduces the decalcification period while preserving intense hybridization signals for mouse alpha 1 chain of procollagen type I mRNA in osteogenic cells in bone. The use of microwave treatment to decalcify skeletal tissues may prevent delay in obtaining experimental results or the loss of signals during in situ hybridization.