For example, assessment of samples for toxicology and pathology requires minimizing artifacts from tissue processing. This starts from the instant a sample is removed from the intact animal or plant. Lack of oxygen or blood flow to the tissue accelerates autolysis. If drugs are used to sacrifice animals, they should be checked to make sure they do not add to the artifacts. After one hour, the tissues can be trimmed further if necessary to get blocks of 1 mm cubed and put into fresh fixative.
Tissues can overfix and leaching of cellular components can occur in all the solutions used.
This makes it difficult to interpret artifact from pathology. Therefore, once processing starts, it is often necessary to proceed without storing tissues. This should be considered when planning sample collection. The chemicals used are toxic and proper precautions should be taken to provide protection during handling. Ms. Silvers can create detailed protocols of sample processing for you after discussing your specific project and reviewing any literature you can provide.