Held's Molybdenum Hematoxylin
Materials
Stock Solution
| Material | Variation I | Variation II | Function |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hematoxylin | 1 g | 1 g | Dye |
| Phosphomolybdic acid | 15 g | – | Mordant |
| Molybdic acid | – | excess | Mordant |
| Distilled water | 30 mL | 30 mL | Solvent |
| 95% ethanol | 70 mL | 70 mL | Solvent |
Solution A
| Material | Amount | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Ferric ammonium sulfate | 5 g | Mordant |
| Distilled water | 100 mL | Solvent |
Solution B
| Material | Amount | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Stock solution | 5 mL | – |
| Distilled water | 95 mL | Solvent |
Compounding Procedures
Stock solution
- Mix the water and ethanol together.
- Dissolve the hematoxylin.
- Add the molybdenum compound specified and shake frequently over a period of one month until there is a distinct colour change to a deep blue-black, then decant.
- The staining improves with aging.
Protocol
- Bring sections to water with xylene and ethanol.
- Optionally, place into solution A for 24 hours.
- Place into solution B for 12-24 hours.
- Differentiate with solution A if overstained.
- Wash in running tap water.
- Dehydrate with ethanol, clear with xylene and mount with a resinous medium.
Expected Results
- Tissue components – various shades.
Notes
- Variation I is from the Microtomist’s Formulary and Guide and specifies phosphomolybdic acid, variation II is from the Microtomists Vade Mecum and specifies molybdic acid.
- It is recommended for developing nerve tissues.
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.
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.
