Several fixatives are commonly used in histology, each with specific applications:
1. Formaldehyde: A widely used fixative that cross-links proteins, providing good overall tissue preservation. 2. Glutaraldehyde: Known for excellent ultrastructural preservation, commonly used in electron microscopy. 3. Alcohol: Used for cytological and some histological preparations, excellent for preserving nucleic acids. 4. Bouin's Solution: A picric acid-based fixative, useful for preserving delicate structures and enhancing staining contrast.
