What Are the Common Staining Techniques Used in Toxicology?
In toxicology, several staining techniques are employed to examine the effects of toxic agents on biological tissues. Some of the most commonly used methods include:
Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) Staining: This is a standard staining technique used for examining tissue morphology. Hematoxylin stains cell nuclei blue, while eosin stains the cytoplasm pink, providing a clear view of cellular architecture. Masson's Trichrome Staining: This method is used to differentiate between collagen and muscle fibers, highlighting the extent of fibrosis or tissue damage caused by toxic agents. Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) Staining: PAS staining is employed to identify polysaccharides, mucosubstances, and glycoproteins, which can be altered in response to toxic exposure. Oil Red O Staining: This technique is used to detect lipids within cells and tissues, often in studies investigating lipid metabolism and storage disorders induced by toxins. Immunohistochemistry (IHC): IHC uses antibodies to detect specific antigens in tissues, allowing for the identification of proteins or other molecules affected by toxicological processes.
