why do we need to use staining agent to stain cells?
Answers
The most basic reason that cells are stained is to enhance visualization of the cell or certain cellular components under a microscope. Cells may also be stained to highlight metabolic processes or to differentiate between live and dead cells in a sample
Staining is a technique used in microscopy to enhance contrast in a microscopic image. Stains and dyes are frequently used to highlight structures in microbes for viewing, often with the aid of different microscopes. Stains may be used to define and examine different types of microbes, various stages of cellular life (e.g., the mitotic cycle), and even organelles within individual cells (e.g., mitochondria or chloroplasts).
In-vivo staining is the process of dyeing living tissue -- in vivo means "in life" (as contrasted to in-vitro staining). When a certain cell or structure takes on contrasting color(s), its form (morphology) or position within a cell or tissue can be readily seen and studied. The usual purpose is to reveal cytological details that might otherwise not be apparent; however, staining can also reveal where certain chemicals or specific chemical reactions are taking place within cells. In-vitro staining involves coloring cells or structures that have been removed from their biological context. Certain stains are often combined to reveal more details and features than a single stain could reveal alone, and a counterstain is a stain that increases visibility of cells or structures when the principal stain is not sufficient. Scientists and physicians can combine staining with specific protocols for fixation and sample preparation and can use these standard techniques as consistent, repeatable diagnostic tools.