Histology is the microscopic study of cells and tissues. It is one of the disciplines that teaches us how the organs of the body function, renew, and repair themselves. A good understanding of microanatomy is central to practically every form of biomedical research and is essential foundational knowledge for physicians.

The starting place is knowing how to effectively use the light microscope. Even though the electronic world is changing many aspects of the study of histology, the microscope remains the workhorse in most biomedical research, diagnostic, and pathology laboratories. Although all of the slides studied in this course are available for review as digital images, knowing how to use a light microscope is important.

What is the best way to use an optical microscope?