Krajian's Iron Hematoxylin
Materials
| Material | Amount | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Hematoxylin | 6 g | Dye |
| Ferric ammonium sulfate | 6 g | Mordant |
| Ferric chloride | 6 g | Mordant |
| Potassium iodide | 6 g | – |
| 95% ethanol | 50 mL | Solvent |
| Distilled water | 50 mL | Solvent |
Compounding Procedure
- Dissolve the hematoxylin in the ethanol.
- Dissolve the other ingredients in the water.
- Combine the solutions.
Protocol
- Bring sections to water with xylene and ethanol.
- Place into the staining solution for 3 minutes.
- Rinse with tap water.
- Dip briefly in 1% hydrochloric acid in 70% ethanol.
- Wash well in running tap water to blue.
- Rinse with distilled water.
- Counterstain if desired.
- Dehydrate with ethanol, clear with xylene and mount with a resinous medium.
Expected Results
- Nuclei – black
- Background – as counterstain or unstained
Notes
- Gray states that this solution is, “an excellent general purpose hematoxylin”.
- The stability of the solution is not commented on, but it is likely not stable for long.
- This method is from a technique for micro-organisms, so the staining time may need to be adjusted for sections.
Safety Note
Prior to handling any chemical, consult the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for proper handling and safety precautions.
References
- Gray, Peter. (1954)
The Microtomist’s Formulary and Guide.
Originally published by: The Blakiston Co.
Republished by: Robert E. Krieger Publishing Co.
