To link hematoxylin to tissue DNA what must be added?

Prepare for the Histotechnologist Certification Exam with our comprehensive study material. Use flashcards, detailed explanations, and intuitive multiple-choice questions. Boost your test readiness and achieve certification success!

Multiple Choice

To link hematoxylin to tissue DNA what must be added?

Explanation:
Hematoxylin needs a mordant to form a dye-lake that can bind to tissue DNA. The mordant, usually an aluminum salt, links the oxidized form of hematoxylin (hematein) to the tissue, creating a complex that adheres to negatively charged nucleic acids in the nucleus. This is what makes nuclei stain a distinct blue/purple. A buffer helps keep the pH in the range where binding is optimal but does not create the link itself. Alcohol is for dehydration and can affect staining intensity, and salt influences ionic strength but does not establish the hematoxylin–DNA binding.

Hematoxylin needs a mordant to form a dye-lake that can bind to tissue DNA. The mordant, usually an aluminum salt, links the oxidized form of hematoxylin (hematein) to the tissue, creating a complex that adheres to negatively charged nucleic acids in the nucleus. This is what makes nuclei stain a distinct blue/purple. A buffer helps keep the pH in the range where binding is optimal but does not create the link itself. Alcohol is for dehydration and can affect staining intensity, and salt influences ionic strength but does not establish the hematoxylin–DNA binding.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Passetra

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy