Embedded specimen of Earthworm
embedded specimen refers to a biological or scientific sample that has been preserved within a solid medium, typically for purposes such as study, display, or education. This embedding process involves encasing the specimen in a substance that supports its structure and allows for detailed examination. Here's an overview of common embedding techniques:
Paraffin Embedding
Purpose: Primarily used in histology for preparing tissue samples for microscopic examination.
Process:
Fixation: Preserves tissue structure.
Dehydration: Removes water from tissues.
Clearing: Replaces alcohol with a substance like xylene.
Infiltration: Tissue is infiltrated with molten paraffin wax.
Embedding: Tissue is placed in a mold with fresh paraffin and allowed to solidify.
Applications: Suitable for most tissue types, especially for light microscopy .
Resin (Epoxy) Embedding
Purpose: Used for electron microscopy and detailed structural analysis.
Process:
Fixation: Preserves tissue structure.
Dehydration: Removes water from tissues.
Infiltration: Tissue is infiltrated with resin.
Polymerization: Resin is hardened, often using heat or light.
Applications: Ideal for ultrastructural studies requiring thin sections