Introduction to Histology and Histotechniques

Flashcards covering the key vocabulary and concepts from the Introduction to Histology and Histotechniques lecture.

Histopathology

The study of changes in tissues caused by disease.

Histotechnology

The methods and techniques used to prepare tissue samples for microscopic examination.

Fixation

The process of preserving tissue specimens to maintain their integrity.

Formaldehyde

A chemical fixative commonly used in histopathology.

Grocott Methenamine Silver (GMS)

A historical stain used to stain a variety of fungal organisms.

Masson’s Trichrome

A historical stain connective tissue.

Weigert’s Stain

A historical stain used for elastic fibers.

10% Neutral Buffered Formalin (NBF)

The most common fixative used in diagnostic pathology because it penetrates the tissue rapidly, causes less shrinking and permits most special stains

Antigen Retrieval

A technique used to restore antibody binding to proteins altered by formaldehyde fixation.

Primary Structure

The exact sequence of amino acids in a protein.

Secondary Structure

Local folding into helices or sheets, stabilized by hydrogen bonds.

Tertiary Structure

The overall 3D shape, formed by folding and coiling of the polypeptide chain.

Quaternary Structure

When multiple protein units (subunits) come together, like in dimers or larger complexes.

Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS)

Documents of chemical hazards.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Equipment used to protect individuals from hazards in the lab.

Global Harmonisation System (GHS)

A system for standardising and harmonizing the classification and labelling of chemicals.

Prion

Misfolded protein molecules forming beta-pleated sheets.

Universal precautions

Safety measures taken to prevent transmission of infectious diseases