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AAT Bioquest

What are the general types of fixation?

Posted December 8, 2022


Answer

Fixation can broadly be classified into two general types – Physical and chemical.

Physical fixation techniques include heating, microwaving, and freeze-drying or cryo-preservation. These methods work by denaturing the proteolytic enzyme and preventing autolysis. Physical fixation techniques preserve the sample’s morphology but not its internal structures. 

Chemical fixation involves immersing the sample in a fixative that helps to prevent autolysis and preserve the tissues in their original state.

Additional resources

Tissue fixation and the effect of molecular fixatives on downstream staining procedures

Buffers and Lab Consumables

ReadiUse™ 4% formaldehyde fixation solution