VIRTUAL STAINING IN PATHOLOGY: FROM PIXELS TO DIAGNOSIS

Abstract

Traditional histopathology relies on chemical stains to visualise tissue architecture, a process that consumes valuable specimens, introduces variability, and takes time. Virtual staining, powered by artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced imaging, has emerged as a potential alternative. This review synthesises recent open-access research on virtual staining, highlighting methodological advances, applications across tissue types, and current limitations. While feasibility has been demonstrated across multiple contexts—including whole slide imaging, fresh tissue, and even multiplex immunostaining—translation into routine practice remains limited. We conclude that virtual staining is a promising but under-researched domain that requires rigorous validation before clinical integration.