Confirm that the tracer you are using crosslinks to proteins or has a primary amine for fixation-either a hydrazide, lysine fixable dextran, or a protein conjugate.
Use aldehyde-based fixatives to cross link the amines on the tracer.
Inject a larger amount or higher concentration of the tracer. Tracers are generally injected at 1-20% concentrations (10 mg/mL or higher).
Confirm that you are using the correct fluorescent filter for detection. You can perform a spot test by pipetting a small amount of the undiluted stock solution of the tracer onto a slide, then view under the filter you are using on your microscope. This will confirm if the tracer fluorescence can be detected and the fluorescent microscope filter is working properly.
Review tissue fixation and handling procedures to confirm if any reagents or processing procedures could be affecting the tracer.
Find additional tips, troubleshooting help, and resources within our Cell Analysis Support Center.