Preparation of tissue sections: Tissues are fixed, typically using formalin fixation, and embedded in paraffin. Thin sections are then cut using a microtome. Rehydration: The sections are rehydrated through a series of alcohol and water baths to prepare them for staining. Staining: Sections are immersed in an Alcian Blue solution at a specific pH, usually 2.5 or 1.0, depending on the type of acidic mucopolysaccharide being targeted. Counterstaining: To provide contrast, sections may be counterstained with nuclear stains like nuclear fast red or hematoxylin. Dehydration and Mounting: The sections are dehydrated, cleared in xylene, and mounted with a coverslip for microscopic examination.
