Practical Histochemistry

Practical Histochemistry Second Edition J. Chayen and L. Bitensky Unit of Cellular Pharmacology and Toxicology, Robens Institute, University of Surrey, UK Whereas in the past histochemistry has been primarily a way of colouring cells and tissue sections, over the last fifteen years it has evolved into a precise and quantitative form of microbiochemistry. New techniques and reagents have been developed which now form the basis of such diverse procedures as highly sensitive bioassays of polypeptides and the monitoring of open heart surgery and heart transplantation. Cell function is left unimpaired by ‘hidden reagents’ which do not release their active moieties until triggered by the products of biochemical reactions, and new methods prevent the loss of soluble active groups from cells and tissues even during prolonged reaction times. The second edition of this highly successful book has been extensively revised and updated to give an authoritative and practical account of the techniques of traditional and modern histochemistry. It conveys the sense of excitement that has been generated in developing a rigorous biochemistry that can be performed at the cellular level within a tissue.