What are the key molecular characteristics in Histology?
Histology, the study of tissues at the microscopic level, involves understanding various molecular characteristics. One of the primary molecular features is the presence of specific proteins that can be detected using immunohistochemistry. This technique utilizes antibodies to bind to these proteins, allowing for their visualization under a microscope. Common markers include keratins in epithelial tissues and collagens in connective tissues.
Another important molecular aspect is the DNA and RNA content within cells. Techniques such as in situ hybridization help localize specific nucleic acid sequences within the tissue sections, providing insights into gene expression patterns. Additionally, the use of fluorescent dyes and confocal microscopy has revolutionized the ability to study molecular interactions and cellular structures in detail.
