Which of the following is NOT a dehydrating agent for tissue processing?

In tissue processing, dehydrating agents are essential for the removal of water from tissue samples, making them suitable for infiltration with embedding media. Methyl alcohol, butyl alcohol, and amyl alcohol are all recognized as effective dehydrating agents. They help in the gradual removal of water through a series of ascending concentrations, ultimately facilitating better infiltration of the embedding medium.

Cyclohexanol, on the other hand, is not typically classified as a dehydrating agent. Instead, it serves as a clearing agent in histology, primarily aiding in the substitution of the embedding medium for the dehydrated tissue. This difference in function sets cyclohexanol apart from the other choices, as its role is not to dehydrate but rather to facilitate the transition from dehydration to embedding.

Understanding the specific roles of these substances is crucial for proper tissue processing, as using the right agents at each step ensures optimal preparation for microscopic examination.