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Coleman’s Schiff Reagent

Coleman’s Formulation

Solution

MaterialAmount
Pararosanilin1g
Distilled water100mL
Potassium metabisulfite1g
Hydrochloric acid, 1N4mL
Activated charcoal (powder)0.25g

Preparation

  1. Dissolve the dye into the water.
  2. Add the potassium metabisulfite.
  3. Add the acid and leave in the dark for 24 hours.
  4. Add the activated charcoal and shake for about a minute.
  5. Filter.
  6. Store at 0-5°C in a tightly stoppered bottle.

Notes

  • Lillie used sodium metabisulfite instead of potassium metabisulfite.
  • The solution should be colorless or very pale amber. Brown solutions will often stain poorly. Usually, these have been made from a batch of basic fuchsin containing too little pararosanilin.

Safety Note

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

References

  1. Lillie, R.D., (1954)
    Histopathologic technique and practical histochemistry Ed.2
    Blakiston, New York, USA.