hematoksüliineosin

Hematoxylin and eosin, often abbreviated as H&E, is the most widely used stain in histology. It is a combination of two stains: hematoxylin, which stains cell nuclei blue, and eosin, which stains cytoplasm and extracellular matrix pink or red. This differential staining allows for the visualization of tissue architecture and cellular detail, making it indispensable for routine microscopic examination in medical diagnostics and research.

Hematoxylin, a natural dye derived from the logwood tree, acts as a basic dye. It binds to acidic components of the cell, primarily the nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) found within the nucleus, giving them a characteristic blue-purple hue. Eosin, an acidic dye, stains basic components of the cell, such as proteins in the cytoplasm and collagen in the extracellular matrix, in shades of pink and red. The intensity of the eosin stain can vary depending on the tissue type and fixation methods used.

The H&E staining procedure involves immersing tissue sections, typically mounted on glass slides, in a series of solutions. This includes hematoxylin, followed by differentiation (often with an acidic solution) to remove excess hematoxylin from non-nuclear areas, and then eosin. A counterstain is usually not required as eosin provides the contrasting color. The precise timing and concentrations of these solutions are crucial for achieving optimal staining results. H&E is a relatively simple, inexpensive, and robust staining method that provides excellent contrast for identifying cellular structures and abnormalities.