Device, system, and method for rapid fixation and embedding of biological specimens

A method for rapid fixation and embedding of a biological specimen, the method comprising:

• providing a system comprising:
• a vacuum source;
• a device comprising:
• a barrel comprising a first end and a second end, the first end of the barrel receiving a plunger, and the second end of the barrel opening to a compartment defining a block mold;
• a plunger for inserting into the barrel, the plunger comprising a first end, a second end, and an interior conduit connecting the first end and the second end, wherein:
• the first end of the plunger is operably connected to the vacuum source;
• and
• the second end of the plunger comprises a filter, the filter providing a semi-permeable barrier between the interior conduit of the plunger and a receptacle for receiving, fixing, and embedding the biological specimen in the embedding matrix, said receptacle defined inside the barrel when the plunger is inserted in the barrel;
• and
• a heat source in thermal communication with the receptacle,
• wherein the plunger is disposed inside the barrel to define the receptacle for receiving the biological specimen;
• orienting the biological specimen in the receptacle;
• fixing the biological specimen in the receptacle;
• dehydrating the biological specimen in the receptacle;
• and
• embedding the specimen in an embedding matrix in the receptacle.