What is Histology?
Histology, also known as microanatomy, is the branch of biology that studies the microscopic anatomy of biological tissues. It involves examining a thin slice (section) of tissue under a microscope to observe the intricate organization and structure of cells and extracellular components.
Tissue fixation: Preserving the tissue to prevent decay.
Embedding: Enclosing the tissue in a solid medium for sectioning.
Microtomy: Cutting thin sections of tissue.
Staining: Applying dyes to enhance contrast and visualize specific components.
Electron microscopy: Providing high-resolution images of tissue ultrastructure.
What Are the Educational Benefits of Histology?
In education, histology is essential for training medical, dental, and veterinary students. It provides foundational knowledge that helps students understand how tissues and organs function in health and disease. Learning to interpret histological slides enhances their diagnostic skills and prepares them for clinical practice.