Microscopic Anatomy Intro and Embryogenesis

Tissue

Group of cells performing a specific function.

Epithelial Tissue

Covers surfaces and cavities in the body.

Connective Tissue

Supports, binds, and fills spaces between organs.

Muscle Tissue

Specialized for contraction and movement.

Nervous Tissue

Regulates body functions through electrical signals.

Histology

Study of tissues and organs under a microscope.

Microscopy

Technique for observing small structures.

Basophilia

Affinity of structures to stain with basic dyes.

Hematoxylin

Basic dye staining acidic structures blue/purple.

Eosin

Acidic dye staining basic structures pink/red.

Periodic Acid Schiff Reaction

Stains carbohydrates red/magenta in tissues.

Silver Stain

Identifies fibers and structures using silver ions.

Nissl Stain

Targets neuronal structures in brain and spinal cord.

Light Microscopy

Uses light to magnify tissue samples.

Electron Microscopy

Uses electrons for higher magnification of samples.

Fixation

Preservation of tissue structure using chemicals.

Dehydration

Replaces water in tissue with ethanol.

Embedding

Incorporating samples in paraffin or resin.

Sectioning

Cutting embedded samples into thin slices.

Staining

Applying dyes to enhance visibility of structures.

Cleavage

Zygote division without growth into morula.

Blastula Stage

Hollow structure with inner mass and trophoblast.

Gastrulation

Formation of three germ layers in embryos.

Organogenesis

Development of organs from germ layers.

Neurulation

Formation of the nervous system from ectoderm.

Extracellular Matrix

Substance outside cells providing structural support.

Ground Substance

Fluid component of the extracellular matrix.

Microscopic Anatomy Applications

Used in medical diagnosis and fundamental science.

Ectoderm

the outer germ layer that develops into skin and nervous tissue.

Mesoderm

the middle germ layer; develops into muscles, bones, blood vessels, the heart, kidneys, and connective tissues.

Endoderm

the inner germ layer that develops into the lining of the digestive and respiratory systems.