The most commonly used method in histology is Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) staining.
H&E staining is a widely adopted technique because it effectively highlights the morphology of tissues, allowing for the visualization of cellular components and structures. It differentiates between acidic and basic substances within the cell, providing contrast that aids in identifying different tissue types and pathological changes.
Here's a breakdown of why H&E is so prevalent:
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Differential Staining: Hematoxylin stains acidic structures, such as the nucleus (due to DNA and RNA), in shades of blue or purple. Eosin stains basic structures, like the cytoplasm and extracellular matrix, in shades of pink or red.
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Versatility: H&E is applicable to a broad range of tissues and sample types.
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Cost-Effectiveness: The reagents are relatively inexpensive and readily available.
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Established Protocol: The procedure is well-established and easy to perform in most histology laboratories.
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Diagnostic Utility: H&E staining provides fundamental information for diagnosing a wide array of diseases, including cancer, infections, and inflammatory conditions.
While other staining methods like Safranin O, Alcian blue, and Toluidine blue are used for specific tissue components (e.g., cartilage), H&E remains the cornerstone of histological examination due to its versatility and ability to reveal general tissue architecture.
