The preparation of tissues for staining involves several key steps:
Fixation Fixation stabilizes and preserves tissues by cross-linking proteins, preventing autolysis and decomposition. Common fixatives include formalin and paraformaldehyde.
Embedding Embedding involves infiltrating tissues with a medium, such as paraffin wax, to provide support for thin sectioning.
Sectioning Sectioning is the process of cutting thin tissue slices using a microtome. Sections are typically cut at 3-5 micrometers thickness for light microscopy.
Mounting Mounting involves placing the tissue sections onto glass slides, which are then ready for staining.
