Staining is a critical aspect of histology because it enhances the contrast in tissue sections, making it easier to differentiate between various cellular components. Common staining techniques include:
- Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) Staining: The most widely used stain in histology, where hematoxylin stains cell nuclei blue, and eosin stains the cytoplasm and extracellular matrix pink. - Immunohistochemistry (IHC): Uses antibodies to detect specific antigens in the tissue, providing precise information about the presence and localization of proteins. - Special Stains: These include PAS, Masson's Trichrome, and others that highlight specific tissue elements like carbohydrates, collagen, or muscle fibers.
