What is the main purpose of embedding tissue in paraffin?

The main purpose of embedding tissue in paraffin is to solidify the sample for easy handling. Paraffin acts as a medium that surrounds the tissue, providing structural support and allowing for thin sectioning. This solidification is crucial because it allows pathologists and laboratory technicians to produce very fine slices of tissue samples for histological examination under a microscope without damaging the delicate cellular structures.

While enhancing staining properties and preserving protein structure are important aspects of tissue processing, they are secondary effects of using paraffin. The primary role is to make the tissue manageable for cutting and further analysis. Preventing contamination is also an important consideration in laboratory practices, but embedding in paraffin specifically focuses on the physical aspect of sample handling.