Gill's modified EA is an alcoholic cytoplasmic counterstain used in the Papanicolaou staining method for cytology. It is applied sequentially after nuclear staining and Gill's modified OG-6 to provide differential coloration of cellular cytoplasm.
Related names: EA counterstain; Papanicolaou EA stain; Pap stain EA.
The formulation contains phosphotungstic acid, glacial acetic acid, Fast Green FCF, and eosin Y in an alcoholic solution. Phosphotungstic acid and the dye combination support differential cytoplasmic staining, while acidification with acetic acid influences eosin and Fast Green FCF uptake.
Gill's modified EA is used full strength without routine mixing or additions. For detailed specimen preparation, staining sequence, reagent use, and expected staining results, refer to the Gill's Modified OG-6 and Gill's Modified EA Technical Data Sheet (TDS).
Key Properties
- EA-type cytoplasmic counterstain for Papanicolaou staining
- Alcoholic solution containing eosin Y and Fast Green FCF
- Also contains phosphotungstic acid and glacial acetic acid
- Used sequentially with Gill's modified OG-6
- Used full strength without routine mixing, dilution, or additions
Applications
Papanicolaou Cytology Staining
Gill's modified EA is used as the EA counterstain in Papanicolaou staining workflows. Following nuclear staining and Gill's modified OG-6, EA provides differential staining of cytoplasmic components.
Differential Cytoplasmic Counterstaining
The combination of eosin Y and Fast Green FCF produces contrasting cytoplasmic colors that help distinguish cell populations and cellular structures during microscopic examination.
Gynecologic & Non-Gynecologic Cytology
Gill's modified EA may be used in Papanicolaou staining procedures involving gynecologic and non-gynecologic cytology preparations when used within an established staining protocol.
Routine Cytology Workflows
The stain is compatible with routine manual cytology staining procedures using a suitable nuclear stain, OG-6, EA, and the required alcohol rinses and processing steps. Polysciences offers additional eosin and hematoxylin staining reagents for histology and cytology workflows.
Compatibility & Bonding Considerations
- Used after nuclear staining and Gill's modified OG-6 in the Papanicolaou sequence
- Fresh cytology preparations may be wet-fixed in 95% ethyl alcohol before staining
- Use full strength for the standard Gill's modified EA procedure
- A weaker staining intensity may be obtained by dilution with methyl or ethyl alcohol when appropriate for the laboratory protocol
Final cytoplasmic coloration depends on fixation, specimen thickness, staining time, reagent condition, alcohol rinses, and the preceding nuclear and OG-6 staining steps. Keep processing conditions consistent when comparing preparations.
Application Tips
- Use Gill's modified EA full strength for the standard procedure; no routine mixing or additions are required
- Filtration is not required before the first use of a fresh stain solution
- Filter the stain after subsequent use to help control carryover and cross-contamination
- Maintain clean alcohol rinses because stain carryover into rinse solutions can affect differential staining
- Use a consistently stained reference slide when monitoring staining performance over time
For the complete Papanicolaou staining method, specimen-preparation guidance, reagent sequence, and interpretation of staining colors, see Technical Data Sheet #196.
Handling & Storage
- Store at room temperature with the container tightly closed
- Keep the stain protected from unnecessary light exposure
- Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources
- Use with good laboratory ventilation or in a chemical fume hood
- Wear protective gloves and safety glasses when handling the solution
Why Choose Polysciences?
Trusted by 6,000+ Researchers Worldwide
Cited in Thousands of Peer-Reviewed Studies
U.S. Manufacturing & Global Distribution
Reliable Delivery to 40+ Countries
FAQ
Click a question to expand.
1. What is Gill's modified EA used for?
Gill's modified EA is a cytoplasmic counterstain used in the Papanicolaou staining method for cytology. It is used after nuclear staining and Gill's modified OG-6 to produce differential cytoplasmic coloration.
2. What does Gill's modified EA contain?
Gill's modified EA is an alcoholic solution containing phosphotungstic acid, glacial acetic acid, Fast Green FCF, and eosin Y. See the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for additional formulation and staining information.
3. Does Gill's modified EA need to be diluted before use?
No. Gill's modified EA is normally used full strength without mixing, dilution, or additions. If a laboratory requires a weaker EA intensity, the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) describes dilution with methyl or ethyl alcohol.
4. Is Gill's modified EA the same as EA-50 or EA-36?
Gill's modified EA is a distinct EA formulation. Polysciences' technical documentation describes it as similar to EA-36 and commercially numbered EA-50 formulations, but it should be used according to the Gill's modified EA staining procedure rather than assumed to be compositionally interchangeable.
5. What sizes of Gill's modified EA are available?
Gill's modified EA is available in 500 mL, 1000 mL, and 3.75 L sizes. For quantities beyond the listed package sizes, request a bulk quote.
Safety & Documentation
Gill's modified EA is a flammable alcoholic staining solution. Use appropriate laboratory ventilation, protective gloves, and eye protection, and keep the reagent away from ignition sources. Review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete safety and handling information and the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for staining procedures, specimen preparation, and reagent-use guidance.
