Several steps are involved in achieving clarity in histological samples: 1. Fixation: This process preserves tissue structure by preventing decay and maintaining the morphology of cells. Common fixatives include formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde. 2. Dehydration and Clearing: Dehydration removes water from the tissue using a series of alcohol solutions, and clearing replaces the alcohol with a substance like xylene, making the tissue transparent. 3. Embedding: The tissue is embedded in a medium like paraffin wax, which provides support during sectioning. 4. Sectioning: Thin slices of the tissue are cut using a microtome. These sections are typically between 3-5 micrometers thick to ensure light can pass through them easily. 5. Staining: Stains such as hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) enhance tissue contrast by coloring different structures distinctly, making them more visible under the microscope.
