In histological sections of the brain, which is lighter in color?

Study for the CAMLPR Histology Practice Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

In histological sections of the brain, which is lighter in color?

In brain histology, color differences reflect what the tissue contains. Gray matter is rich in neuron cell bodies and Nissl substance, which stain strongly with hematoxylin, so it appears dark. White matter, on the other hand, is dense with myelinated axons; the lipid-rich myelin doesn’t stain well, so this region looks paler. Thus white matter is lighter in color on typical sections. The meninges—dura mater and pia mater—surround the brain and aren’t part of the parenchymal gray/white matter contrast, so they don’t factor into this light-vs-dark comparison.

In brain histology, color differences reflect what the tissue contains. Gray matter is rich in neuron cell bodies and Nissl substance, which stain strongly with hematoxylin, so it appears dark. White matter, on the other hand, is dense with myelinated axons; the lipid-rich myelin doesn’t stain well, so this region looks paler. Thus white matter is lighter in color on typical sections. The meninges—dura mater and pia mater—surround the brain and aren’t part of the parenchymal gray/white matter contrast, so they don’t factor into this light-vs-dark comparison.

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