Abstract
In previous chapters we have dealt with ‘acid’ and `basic’ dyes (see chapters 5 and 6). When these acid dyes are combined with other acid dyes, there is no chemical interaction. The same is true for a combin-ation of basic dyes. However, a different situation arises when an acid dye and a basic dye are put in the same solution. In that case the coloured anion and the coloured cation may combine, forming a coloured salt. Such a solution is described as neutral. The salt as such can react with certain cell components. In addition, the acid component and the basic component of the neutral stain can react with other cell elements. Thus all three, the salt, the cation and the anion, can colour different cell components. Because of this threefold action, a neutral stain can produce a very useful differentia-tion of cell components in one staining bath.
Preview
Unable to display preview. Download preview PDF.
Copyright information
© 1986 Mathilde E. Boon and Johanna S. Drijver
About this chapter
Cite this chapter
Boon, M.E., Drijver, J.S. (1986). Neutral Stains: the Romanowsky — Giemsa Methods. In: Routine Cytological Staining Techniques. Palgrave, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-18250-3_9
Download citation
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-349-18250-3_9
Publisher Name: Palgrave, London
Print ISBN: 978-0-333-39713-8
Online ISBN: 978-1-349-18250-3
eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)