++
Histology explores the body’s tissues and how these are arranged to produce functional organs. The subject involves all aspects of tissue biology, from cellular biology to microscopic anatomy, focusing on how cell activities, shapes, and groupings are optimized for specific organ functions.
++
Tissues have two interacting components: cells and extracellular matrix (ECM). The ECM involves many kinds of macromolecules, most of which form complex structures, such as collagen fibrils. The ECM supports the cells and contains the fluid transporting nutrients to the cells and carrying away their wastes and secretory products. Cells produce the ECM locally and are in turn strongly influenced by matrix molecules. Many matrix components bind to specific cell surface receptors that span the cell membranes and connect to structural components inside the cells, forming a continuum in which cells and the ECM function together in a well-coordinated manner.
++
During embryonic development, cells and their associated matrix become functionally specialized and give rise to fundamental types of tissues with characteristic structural features. Organs form by an orderly combination of these tissues, and their precise arrangement allows the functioning of each organ and of the organism.
++
The small size of cells and matrix components makes histology dependent on the use of microscopes and molecular methods of study. Advances in biochemistry, molecular biology, physiology, immunology, and pathology are essential for a better knowledge of tissue biology. Familiarity with the tools and methods of any branch of science is essential for a proper understanding of the subject. This chapter reviews common methods used to study cells and tissues, focusing on microscopic approaches.
+++
PREPARATION OF TISSUES FOR STUDY
++
The most common procedure used in histologic research is the preparation of tissue slices or “sections” that can be examined visually with transmitted light. Because most tissues and organs are too thick for light to pass through, thin translucent sections are cut from them and placed on glass slides for microscopic examination of their internal structures.
++
The ideal microscopic preparation is preserved so that the tissue on the slide has the same structural features it had in the body. However, this is often not feasible because the preparation process can remove cellular lipid, with slight distortions of cell structure. Figure 1–1 summarizes the initial steps used in tissue preparation for light microscopy.
++