Tissue preparation is a critical step in histology to ensure high-quality images. The process includes:
Fixation: This step preserves the tissue and prevents degradation. Common fixatives include formaldehyde and glutaraldehyde. Embedding: The tissue is embedded in a solid medium, usually paraffin wax, to support it during sectioning. Sectioning: Thin slices of tissue, typically 3-5 micrometers thick, are cut using a microtome. Staining: Stains like Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) are used to enhance contrast and highlight different structures within the tissue.