[12] Histology and Immunohistochemistry Flashcards
What topics are covered in the “Histology and Immunohistochemistry” deck?
- Tissue preparation
- Staining techniques
- Microscopy
Define ‘Histology’
The study of the microscopic structure of tissues
What is ‘Immunohistochemistry’?
A method for detecting antigens in cells of a tissue section by exploiting the principle of antibodies binding specifically to antigens
What is ‘Tissue Preparation’ in histology?
The process of preparing tissue specimens for microscopic examination
What does ‘Staining techniques’ refer to in histology?
Methods used to enhance contrast in the microscopic image
Explain ‘Microscopy’ in the context of histology
It is the technical field of using microscopes to view samples and objects that are not visible to the naked eye
What are the steps in ‘Tissue Preparation’?
- Fixation
- Dehydration
- Clearing
- Infiltration
- Embedding
- Sectioning
What is ‘Fixation’ in tissue preparation?
A process that preserves tissues in a life-like state
What is ‘Dehydration’ in tissue preparation?
The process of removing water from tissue samples
What is ‘Clearing’ in tissue preparation?
The process of replacing water with a substance that will harden and support the tissue
What is ‘Infiltration’ in tissue preparation?
The process of immersing the tissue in a substance that will harden to support the tissue for slicing
What is ‘Embedding’ in tissue preparation?
Encasing the tissue in a supportive substance before slicing into thin sections
What is ‘Sectioning’ in tissue preparation?
Cutting of tissues into thin slices using a microtome
What is the purpose of ‘Staining techniques’ in histology?
To enhance contrast in the microscopic image, as biological tissues are often transparent
Name some common staining techniques used in histology
- Hematoxylin and Eosin stain (H&E)
- Periodic acid–Schiff stain (PAS)
- Masson’s Trichrome stain
