Tissue processing typically involves several key steps:
Fixation: This step involves treating the tissue with a chemical fixative, such as formaldehyde, to preserve its structure and prevent decomposition. Dehydration: The tissue is gradually dehydrated using increasing concentrations of alcohol to remove water. Clearing: The dehydrated tissue is treated with a clearing agent, like xylene, to remove alcohol and make the tissue transparent. Infiltration: The tissue is infiltrated with paraffin wax, making it firm and easy to cut.