What does differentiation achieve in tissue staining?

Differentiation in tissue staining specifically refers to the process of distinguishing between various cellular components, particularly in histological preparations. This process is crucial for enhancing the contrast of specific structures within the tissue, such as nuclei.

By utilizing differentiation, certain staining protocols allow the nuclei to retain a reddish-brown color, which is essential for visualizing them against the background of the tissue. This retention of color helps pathologists and laboratory technicians effectively identify and analyze the structural and functional characteristics of cells.

In this context, the choice that states differentiation retains a reddish-brown color in nuclei accurately reflects the purpose of this step in staining processes, emphasizing its role in improving the visibility and differentiation of cellular components.