Matrix Sectioning Blocks (Brain & Heart)
Unified matrix sectioning family covering brain coronal, brain sagittal, and heart coronal configurations across section spacing and size ranges.
Louise Corscadden, PhD
Director of Science · ConductScience
Ask Louise about Matrix Sectioning Blocks (Brain & Heart) fit, setup, configuration, or quote prep.
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Brain Matrix Coronal Section System - Precision animal brain sectioning tool for research and education. Our brain matrices provide consistent, repeatable sectioning for accurate neuroanatomical slicing.
Key Features
- Precision-machined stainless steel construction
- Consistent slice thickness for reproducible results
- Species-specific sizing (Mouse, Rat, Heart)
- Multiple section types (Coronal and Sagittal)
- Ideal for neuroanatomy teaching and research
- Easy to use and clean
How to Select Your Model
Use the selector above to choose your model by:
- Species - Select Mouse, Rat, or Heart
- Section Type - Choose Coronal or Sagittal orientation
- Weight Range - Match your animal's weight
- Slice Thickness - Choose 0.5mm or 1mm
Each combination shows the exact price for that model.
How It Works
The brain matrix operates on the principle of guided sectioning using precision-machined slot guides that maintain perpendicular orientation to the brain's anatomical axes. The coronal orientation cuts are made perpendicular to the rostral-caudal axis, generating sections that display bilateral brain structures in cross-section. Slot spacing at 1mm or 0.5mm intervals ensures consistent section thickness, critical for quantitative analysis and cross-study comparisons.
The stainless steel construction provides the rigidity necessary to maintain cutting plane accuracy while resisting deformation during use. Integrated anatomical reference features, including olfactory and spinal cord notches, ensure consistent brain positioning relative to standard anatomical coordinates. The midline groove facilitates precise hemisphere separation when bilateral analysis is required, enabling left-right comparisons or independent hemisphere processing.
Sample preparation involves placing the fresh or fixed brain tissue within the matrix guides, aligning anatomical landmarks with the reference notches, and using a sharp blade to section through the slot guides. The resulting sections maintain consistent thickness and anatomical orientation, suitable for further processing including microtome sectioning, tissue punching, or direct biochemical analysis.
Features & Benefits
Species
- 35874
Orientation
- 36072
- 36073
Weight Range
- 36074
- 36075
- 36076
Thickness
- 36077
- 36078
Weight
- 44.02 kg
Dimensions
- L: 46.5 mm
- W: 44.0 mm
- H: 35.5 mm
| Feature | This Product | Typical Alternative | Advantage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Section Thickness Options | Available in 1mm and 0.5mm slot spacing configurations | Many models offer only single thickness options or less precise spacing | Provides flexibility to match section thickness to experimental requirements without purchasing multiple tools. |
| Anatomical Reference Features | Integrated olfactory and spinal notches plus midline groove | Basic models often lack anatomical reference points | Ensures consistent brain positioning and enables reproducible orientation across researchers and experiments. |
| Material Construction | Stainless steel with autoclave capability | Plastic models cannot withstand sterilization | Enables use in sterile applications and provides long-term durability for high-throughput laboratories. |
| Species Optimization | Specifically dimensioned for 40-75g mouse brains | Generic designs may not securely hold smaller brain samples | Prevents tissue movement during sectioning, improving cut quality and reducing sample loss. |
This brain matrix combines precision machining with practical design features including dual thickness options, integrated anatomical references, and autoclavable construction. The mouse-specific optimization ensures secure tissue positioning while the stainless steel construction provides durability for extended laboratory use.
| Model | SKU | Listed price | Status | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product model | 68719 | $396.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Product model | 68720 | $455.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Product model | 68721 | $455.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Product model | 68722 | $507.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Mouse | RWD-BMSC-68708 | $314.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Mouse | RWD-BMSC-68714 | $469.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Rat | RWD-BMSC-68710 | $314.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Rat | RWD-BMSC-68712 | $314.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Rat | RWD-BMSC-68716 | $469.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Rat | RWD-BMSC-68718 | $469.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Mouse | RWD-BMCS-68713 | $341.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Rat | RWD-BMCS-68709 | $336.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Rat | RWD-BMCS-68711 | $336.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Mouse | RWD-BMCS-68707 | $336.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Rat | RWD-BMCS-68717 | $336.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
| Rat | RWD-BMCS-68715 | $336.00 | Available | 46.5 x 44.0 x 35.5 cm |
Practical Tips
Chill the brain matrix and cutting blade on ice for 10-15 minutes before sectioning fresh tissue.
Why: Cooler temperatures firm the tissue slightly, reducing compression and improving cut quality.
Inspect slot edges regularly for nicks or damage that could affect cutting plane accuracy.
Why: Damaged guides can cause blade deflection, resulting in angled cuts and inconsistent section thickness.
Verify slot spacing periodically using precision calipers, especially after autoclaving cycles.
Why: Repeated thermal cycling may cause minor dimensional changes that could affect section thickness consistency.
Always cut away from your body and keep fingers clear of the blade path when sectioning.
Why: Sharp blades can cause serious injury if proper cutting technique and hand positioning are not maintained.
Number sections sequentially and photograph the matrix position before sectioning for documentation.
Why: Maintains anatomical coordinate reference and enables reconstruction of section positions for analysis.
If sections appear compressed, ensure the blade is sharp and perpendicular to the slot guides.
Why: Dull blades or angled cutting can compress tissue rather than cleanly severing it, affecting downstream analysis.
Process sections immediately after cutting or place in appropriate preservation solution to prevent degradation.
Why: Exposed brain tissue is vulnerable to enzymatic degradation and oxidation that can affect biochemical and molecular analyses.
Setup Guide
What’s in the Box
- Brain Matrix: Coronal Section (stainless steel)
- User manual with positioning guidelines
- Anatomical reference guide (typical)
Warranty
ConductScience provides a one-year manufacturer warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship, with technical support available for setup and protocol optimization.
Compliance
What is the precision of section thickness when using the 1mm slot spacing?
The precision-machined slots maintain consistent spacing within standard machining tolerances. For exact specifications, consult the product datasheet. Actual section thickness depends on blade sharpness and cutting technique.
Can this matrix be used with fixed tissue, or only fresh brain samples?
The matrix accommodates both fresh and fixed tissue. However, paraformaldehyde-fixed brains may require slightly different handling due to increased tissue firmness and potential dimensional changes from fixation.
How should I maintain blade sharpness for consistent cuts?
Use fresh single-edge razor blades or sharp microtome blades for each brain. Replace blades immediately when cutting resistance increases or section edges become ragged to maintain clean, perpendicular cuts.
Is the matrix compatible with cryostat sectioning workflows?
Yes, the matrix generates initial blocks suitable for cryostat sectioning. The consistent thickness and orientation facilitate mounting and further sectioning for microscopic analysis.
What is the maximum brain size that fits in the mouse matrix?
The matrix is optimized for mice weighing 40-75g. Larger specimens may not fit properly within the dimensional constraints, potentially compromising sectioning accuracy and tissue integrity.
Can I section both hemispheres simultaneously or should I separate them first?
You can section the whole brain first, then use the midline groove to separate hemispheres from individual sections, or separate hemispheres initially and section each independently based on your experimental requirements.
How do I clean the matrix between different experimental groups?
Clean thoroughly with detergent and water, followed by 70% ethanol. For experiments requiring sterile conditions, autoclave the matrix between uses to prevent cross-contamination between sample groups.
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Accessories
Enhance your setup with compatible accessories
