Which individual is associated with the formal study of tissues?

The individual associated with the formal study of tissues is Marcello Malpighi. He is often referred to as the "father of microscopic anatomy" and made significant contributions to the understanding of tissue structures through his pioneering use of the microscope in the 17th century. Malpighi's studies laid the foundation for histology, which is the study of tissues at a microscopic level.

His observations and detailed descriptions of various tissues, such as skin, lungs, and kidneys, were crucial in advancing the field. This landmark work emphasized the importance of cellular structures in understanding the organization and function of living organisms, marking a significant evolution in biological sciences.

While other figures like Rudolf Virchow were prominent in the fields of cellular pathology and public health, their contributions were more aligned with the implications of cellular structures in disease rather than the foundational study of tissues themselves. August Hoffman was known for his work in organic chemistry, and Dr. David Hume is associated with philosophy rather than histology. Thus, Malpighi's role in the formal study of tissues makes him the correct answer.