Chemical fixation involves the use of various reagents that stabilize tissue by cross-linking proteins and other macromolecules.
Formaldehyde: The most widely used fixative, effective for general histological purposes. Glutaraldehyde: Provides better preservation of cellular ultrastructure, commonly used in electron microscopy. Alcohols: Such as ethanol and methanol, are used for dehydrating tissues and stabilizing nucleic acids. Acetic Acid: Often combined with alcohols for soft tissue preservation.
