Brain tissue. Light micrograph of a section through tissue from the mammalian brain, in this case from the cerebellum. The cerebellum is the part of the brain that controls sensory perception, motor control and coordination. The sample shows the outer grey matter (orange with black areas, most of image). This consists of two layers of neurons with cell bodies and ganglions. The inner white matter …

Caffeine crystals. Polarised light micrograph of crystals of caffeine (1, 3, 7-trimethylxanthine). Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system increasing alertness and deferring fatigue. Caffeine is also a diuretic (increases the removal of water from the body) and has laxative properties. It is widely known for its presence in coffee beans and tea leaves…..

Candida fungus. Light micrograph of threads (hyphae) of the fungus Candida albicans, taken from a human saliva sample. This is a type of yeast, which is commonly found on human skin and the mucous membranes of the mouth, respiratory tract, intestinal tract, and vagina. Human bacterial microflora usually prevent the yeast from spreading and causing an infection. However, the use of antibiotics or a…