What is the primary mechanism of action of formaldehyde as a fixative?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: Cross-linking proteins via methylene bridges
Formaldehyde is an additive, non-coagulant fixative that reacts primarily with basic amino acids to form methylene bridges (cross-links). This preserves the relationship between proteins and maintains the structural integrity of the tissue.
Keep practicing
More Fixatives questions
- Which of the following fixatives is considered the 'gold standard' for routine histopathology and long-term storage?
- A pathology resident observes a brown, granular pigment in a blood-rich tissue section fixed in unbuffered formalin. This pigment can be re…
- Which fixative is specifically preferred for electron microscopy due to its superior preservation of intracellular ultrastructure?
- Which of the following is a major disadvantage of using Mercuric Chloride-based fixatives (e.g., B5 or Zenker's)?
- Bouin's fluid is composed of formaldehyde, acetic acid, and which other chemical?
- What is the primary role of Acetic Acid when included in compound fixatives?