Which combination of colors is represented in the Masson's trichrome stain?

Masson's trichrome stain is a histological technique commonly used to differentiate between different tissue components, particularly in connective tissue and muscle samples. The staining method typically produces specific colors for various structures within the tissue.

The correct combination of colors represented in the Masson's trichrome stain includes red for muscle fibers and yellow or light brown for collagen. Muscle fibers absorb the red dye, making them easily identifiable under the microscope, while collagen, being a structural protein in connective tissue, takes on a different color that helps contrast the muscle fibers.

Understanding the visual outcomes of Masson’s trichrome staining is crucial for accurately interpreting histological slides. It allows pathologists and researchers to assess the relative amounts of muscle and collagen in various tissues, which can be vital in diagnosing conditions such as fibrosis or muscle degeneration. Recognizing these colors helps in distinguishing different types of tissues and enhances the overall understanding of tissue architecture.