Skip to main content

Maximow’s Metachromatic Stain

Protocol

Maximow's Metachromatic Stain

6
steps
2
materials

Materials

  • Ethanol, 50%, saturated with thionin.
  • Sodium carbonate, 0.3% w/v aqueous.

Tissue Sample

Alcohol fixed tissues are recommended, but5µ paraffin sections of neutral buffered formalin fixed tissue may be suitable. Other fixatives may be satisfactory.

Protocol

  1. Dewax with xylene and bring sections to 70% ethanol.
  2. Stain with the thionin solution for 24 to 48 hours.
  3. Blot section dry.
  4. Rinse twice with 95% ethanol.
  5. Rinse well with absolute ethanol.
  6. Clear with xylene and mount with a resinous medium.

Expected Results

  • Nuclei – blue
  • Mast cell granules – red/purple

Safety Note

Prior to handling any chemical, consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for proper handling and safety precautions.

References

  1. McManus, J.F.A. and Mowry, R.W., (1960),
    Staining methods, histologic and histochemical, pp. 261.
    Harper & Row, New York, NY, USA.