Once embedded, tissues are sectioned into thin slices using a microtome. These sections are placed on glass slides and stained to enhance contrast and visualize different cellular components. Common stains include: - Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E): Hematoxylin stains nuclei blue, while eosin stains cytoplasm and extracellular matrix pink. - Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS): Stains carbohydrates and mucopolysaccharides magenta. - Masson's Trichrome: Differentiates between muscle, collagen, and epithelial tissues.
