Book Description

Histochemistry: An Explanatory Outline of Histochemistry and Biophysical Staining describes the histochemical staining of cells and tissues as a major tool applied in biological and medical investigations, both in basic research and in practical applications such as clinical diagnosis. The book may be considered as a guide to understanding the scientific basis of staining procedures and alternate actions to take when common methods do not proceed as expected. The first chapter gives general theoretical ideas from which most part of the book is largely organized around. As the book considers the arts and crafts making up the practice of histochemistry and biological staining, emphasis is given to the common physicochemical aspects of the technically diverse methodologies involved. Hence, the author has drawn ideas and information from physicochemically and biochemically related fields, such as chromatography, pharmacology, photography, tanning, and textile dyeing. The bulk of the book is structured around groups of practical procedures, such as fixation, staining with dyestuffs, metal impregnation, and selective extraction as a test of significance. Lastly, general essays on the usefulness of staining theories and on the problems arising from reagent impurities are given as examples. The text is suitable for students and researchers in the fields of physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology. Clinical laboratory scientists and those involved in the life sciences and biotechnology will benefit from reading the book.