In Hematoxylin and Eosin staining, which reagent serves as the nuclear stain?

Study for the CAMLPR Histology Practice Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

Multiple Choice

In Hematoxylin and Eosin staining, which reagent serves as the nuclear stain?

In Hematoxylin and Eosin staining, the nuclear stain is hematoxylin because it is a basic dye that binds to acidic components like DNA and RNA in the nucleus, forming a blue to purple complex when stabilized by a mordant and blueing step. This makes nuclei stand out clearly against the pink-stained cytoplasm. Eosin then acts as the counterstain, coloring cytoplasmic and extracellular structures pink. The other reagents have different roles: acid alcohol differentiates and helps remove excess stain to sharpen contrast, lithium carbonate serves as a bluing agent to intensify the blue nuclei, and eosin provides the pink cytoplasmic stain.

In Hematoxylin and Eosin staining, the nuclear stain is hematoxylin because it is a basic dye that binds to acidic components like DNA and RNA in the nucleus, forming a blue to purple complex when stabilized by a mordant and blueing step. This makes nuclei stand out clearly against the pink-stained cytoplasm. Eosin then acts as the counterstain, coloring cytoplasmic and extracellular structures pink. The other reagents have different roles: acid alcohol differentiates and helps remove excess stain to sharpen contrast, lithium carbonate serves as a bluing agent to intensify the blue nuclei, and eosin provides the pink cytoplasmic stain.

More practice questions