Product Introduction
Alcian Blue, also known as Alcian Blue 8GX or Alcian Blue GX, is a copper-containing phthalocyanine dye originally used for textile fiber staining. This cationic dye binds to acidic groups, forming insoluble complexes with anionic groups such as carboxyl and sulfate groups in tissues. The structure of Alcian Blue consists of a central copper-containing phthalocyanine ring linked to four isothiouronium groups via thioether bonds. The isothiouronium groups are moderately basic, giving the dye a positive charge. At pH 2.5, carboxyl groups in tissues are ionized and carry a negative charge, forming electrostatic bonds with the positively charged dye, thus staining acidic mucosubstances such as sialomucins and sulfomucins. At pH 1.0, sulfate groups are ionized and carry a negative charge, allowing staining of sulfated mucosubstances.
EnkiLife Alcian Blue Staining Solution (pH 2.5), also known as standard Alcian Blue solution, uses different pH values to distinguish types of mucosubstances: At pH 1.0: carboxyl (COOH) groups are not stained, sulfate (OSO3H) groups are stained. At pH 2.5: carboxyl groups are well stained, sulfated mucins are poorly stained. Neutral mucins (e.g., in gastric mucosa and Brunner’s glands) do not react with Alcian Blue.
Basic Information
Product name | Alcian Blue Staining Kit, pH 2.5 |
Sizes | 50 mL |
Storage | 2-8 °C, keep away from light |
Shipping | Shipped with ice pack |
Validity | 12 months |
Product Components
Components | 3x 50mL |
Reagent (A): Alcian Acidification Solution | 50 mL |
Reagent (B): Alcian Staining Solution | 50 mL |
Reagent (C): Nuclear Fast Red Staining Solution | 50 mL |
Notes
1. Use 10% neutral formalin as fixative.
2. To selectively identify sulfated mucins and proteoglycans, use Alcian Blue at pH 1.0. The staining procedure is the same as for pH 2.5, but staining time should be extended.
3. After opening, use the reagent within 6 months. Always tighten the cap after use to prevent evaporation or degradation.
4. For your safety and health, wear a lab coat and disposable gloves.
5. Use the reagent promptly after opening to ensure optimal performance.
