How are Tissues Prepared for Microscopic Examination?
Tissue preparation for microscopic examination typically involves several steps:
Fixation: This process involves preserving the tissue to prevent decay and maintain its structure. Common fixatives include formalin and glutaraldehyde. Embedding: The fixed tissue is embedded in a solid medium, such as paraffin wax, to provide support for thin sectioning. Sectioning: The embedded tissue is sliced into thin sections using a microtome. These sections are usually 4-10 micrometers thick. Staining: Tissue sections are stained to enhance contrast and highlight specific structures. Common stains include hematoxylin and eosin (H&E), which differentiate between various cellular components.
