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Mallory’s Alum Hematoxylin

Mallory's Alum Hematoxylin

8
steps
4
materials

Materials

MaterialAmountFunction
Hematoxylin2.5 gDye
Potassium alum50 gMordant
Distilled water1 LSolvent
Thymol2.5 gPreservative

Compounding Procedure

  1. Dissolve the dye and Alum in the water.
  2. Add the thymol.
  3. Allow to ripen before use.
  4. </ol

Protocol

  1. Bring sections to water with xylene and ethanol.
  2. Place into the staining solution for an appropriate time.
  3. Rinse well with water.
  4. Differentiate with acid ethanol if necessary.
  5. Rinse with water and blue.
  6. Rinse well with water.
  7. Counterstain if desired.
  8. Dehydrate with ethanol, clear with xylene and mount with a resinous medium.

Expected Results

  • Nuclei  –  blue
  • Background  –  as counterstain or unstained

Notes

  • The staining time should be determined by trial.
  • Acid ethanol is 0.5% – 1% hydrochloric acid in 70% ethanol.
  • Blueing is done with alkaline solutions such as hard tap water, Scott’s tap water substitute, 0.1% ammonia water, 1% aqueous sodium acetate, 0.5% aqueous lithium carbonate etc.

Safety Note

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

References

  1. Gray, Peter. (1954)
    The Microtomist’s Formulary and Guide.
    Originally published by: The Blakiston Co.
    Republished by: Robert E. Krieger Publishing Co.