Bouin's solution operates through several mechanisms:
Picric Acid: Acts as a protein coagulant and helps in staining tissues. It also minimizes tissue shrinkage and hardening. Formaldehyde: Cross-links proteins, stabilizing tissue structure and preventing autolysis and putrefaction. Acetic Acid: Counteracts the hardening effect of formaldehyde, preserves nucleic acids, and enhances staining of cell nuclei.