The method of detecting tracers depends on their type:
1. Autoradiography: This technique is used for radioactive tracers. Tissue sections are placed on a photographic film, and the emitted radiation exposes the film, creating an image corresponding to the tracer's location.
2. Fluorescence Microscopy: For fluorescent tracers, a microscope equipped with specific filters is used to excite the fluorophores and capture the emitted light, producing a detailed image of the tracer distribution.
3. Chromogenic Detection: In enzyme-based tracers, a substrate that changes color upon reaction with the enzyme is used. The resultant color change can be observed under a light microscope.
4. MRI and PET Scans: Magnetic and positron-emitting tracers are detected using MRI and PET (Positron Emission Tomography) scanners, respectively, providing highly detailed images of tracer distribution in tissues.
