Staining enhances the contrast between different tissue components, making cellular structures more visible. Common staining methods include:
Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E): The most widely used stain in histology, providing good contrast between nuclei and cytoplasm. Special stains: Such as Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS), which highlights carbohydrates, or Masson's Trichrome for connective tissue. Immunohistochemistry: Uses antibodies to detect specific antigens in tissues, providing more precise diagnostic information.