Achucarro

Achucarro refers to the silver staining method developed by Nicolás Achúcarro, a Spanish neuroscientist and neuropathologist. This histological technique is used in the study of neurofibrillary tangles, senile plaques, and other pathological structures in the brain, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.

The Achucarro silver stain is a modification and refinement of earlier silver impregnation methods developed by other researchers like Bielschowsky. Achúcarro's method involves the use of silver nitrate to deposit metallic silver onto specific structures within the tissue, allowing them to be visualized under a microscope. The technique relies on the differential affinity of certain cellular components for silver ions, resulting in selective staining.

The stain is valued for its ability to highlight subtle morphological details of neuronal structures affected by disease processes. While other staining methods exist, the Achucarro method played a significant role in the early characterization of Alzheimer's pathology and continues to be employed, often in modified forms, in neuropathological research and diagnostics. The method is technically demanding and requires careful control of staining parameters to achieve optimal results. Variations and combinations with other staining techniques are often employed to enhance contrast and specificity.