Held's
Molybdenum Hematoxylin

Stock solution	Amount	Function
Hematoxylin	1 g	Dye
Phosphomolybdic acid or Molybdic acid	15 g excess	Mordant
Distilled water	30 mL	Solvent
95% ethanol	70 mL	Solvent
Solution A	Amount	Function
Ferric ammonium sulphate	5 g	Mordant
Distilled water	100 mL	Solvent
Solution B	Amount	Function
Stock solution	5 mL	–
Distilled water	95 mL	Solvent

 

Compounding procedure

Stock solution
Mix the water and ethanol together.
Dissolve the hematoxylin.
Add an excess of phosphomolybdic or molybdic acid.
Shake frequently over one month until there is a distinct colour change to a deep blue-black.
Decant.
The staining improves with aging.

Method

1. Bring sections to water with xylene and ethanol.
2. Optionally, place into solution A for 24 hours.
3. Place into solution B for 12-24 hours.
4. Differentiate with solution A if overstained.
5. Wash in running tap water.
6. Dehydrate with ethanol, clear with xylene and mount with a resinous medium.

Expected results

• Tissue components  –  various shades.

Notes

1. The Microtomist's Formulary and Guide specifies phosphomolybdic acid, but the Microtomists Vade Mecum specifies molybdic acid.
2. It is recommended for developing nerve tissues.

 

Reference

Gray, Peter. (1954)
The Microtomist's Formulary and Guide.
Originally published by:– The Blakiston Co.
Republished by:– Robert E. Krieger Publishing Co.
  Citing:–
    Bolles-Lee, A.; Edited by Gatenby, J. B. & Painter, T. S., (1937)
    The microtomists's Vade-Mecum, p. 374
    Blakiston, Philadelphia, USA

Bolles Lee, A.; Edited by Gatenby, J.B. and Beams, H.W., (1950)
The Microtomist's Vade-Mecum. 11 ed.,
Churchill, London, UK.