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Home / Techniques / Protocols / Alcian blue

Techniques. Protocols

ALCIAN BLUE

Alcian blue is a basic dye used to stain carbohydrates in animal tissues and primary cell walls in plant tissues. The blue color is provided by the copper present in the dye molecule.

Procedure

1 g Alcian blue (C.I. 74240)

3 ml glacial acetic acid

97 ml distilled water

Notes

Mix thoroughly the components of the solution. I can be stored for years. An optimal staining is achieved at about pH 2. Thus, adjust the pH with acetic acid before use.

Products

Alcian blue (C.I. 74240)

Glacial acetic acid

Distilled water

Labware

Test tube

Balance

Magnetic stirrer

Flasks

Bottles

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