Daniel JA, Kukor I . PSII-B-24 Use of the Elnady technique of tissue preservation to preserve specimens for use in undergraduate animal science courses. Journal of Animal Science. 2021;99 Suppl 3:503


Abstract

The use of tissue specimens for undergraduate instruction is a very valuable tool. However, fresh tissue specimens are not always available and many common preservation techniques can result in discoloration, offensive odors, and/or dangerous chemical residues. The Elnady Technique was developed as a means to produce tissue specimens that “are realistic, durable, have no offensive odor, and are dry, soft and flexible” (Elnady, F.A. 2016 The Elnady Technique: An innovative, new method for tissue preservation. Altex. 33:237–242. doi:10.14573/altex.1511091). Briefly for soft tissue, specimens were preserved by fixing in formalin for one week. The tissue specimen was then dehydrated with a series of acetone baths changed weekly. Once the tissue was fully dehydrated, the specimen was impregnated in glycerin by full immersion in a glycerin bath for one to two weeks. Excess glycerin was then removed by draining followed by immersion in cornstarch for one to two weeks. Cornstarch residue was removed with a soft brush, and the specimen was stored in a plastic bag. Multiple specimens (including female reproductive tract of the cat, goat, horse, and sow; digestive tract of barred owl, cat, chicken, and dog; one day old lamb stomach; goat rumen, reticulum, omasum, and abomasum; deer testicle; and sheep heart and kidney) have been preserved and used in various animal science course laboratories (75 laboratory sections and over 1000 students at Berry College). Some of the specimens have been in use for five years and are still in usable condition. The Elnady Technique has proven to be a useful means of preserving tissue samples used in undergraduate animal science courses.