Histochemical Stains
Histochemical stains are specialized dyes used in microscopy to visualize specific components of cells and tissues. These stains help identify the presence and distribution of various substances, such as proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids, by binding to them and producing a color change. This technique is essential in fields like pathology and histology for diagnosing diseases and understanding tissue structure.
Different histochemical stains target specific cellular components. For example, Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) is commonly used to highlight cell nuclei and cytoplasm, while Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) stain is effective for detecting carbohydrates. By using these stains, researchers and clinicians can gain valuable insights into cellular functions and abnormalities.