Multiple Stain Solution (MSS) is a one-step histology and cytology stain containing toluidine blue O and basic fuchsin. It differentiates acidophilic and basophilic structures and produces an appearance similar to hematoxylin and eosin staining in tissue sections, smears, and cell preparations.
Related name: Replacement for the former Paragon Multiple Stain (PMS).
Multiple Stain Solution can be applied directly to frozen, paraffin, epoxy, JB-4®, JB-4 Plus®, GMA, and MMA sections. Depending on the specimen and desired staining intensity, the solution may be used at full strength or diluted with deionized water for greater control of staining time.
Stained nuclei appear blue, while cytoplasmic structures develop varying shades of pink. The stain is also used in Tzanck preparations and other cytology workflows where rapid differentiation of cellular structures is required.
Key Properties
- One-step histology and cytology stain
- Contains toluidine blue O and basic fuchsin
- Differentiates acidophilic and basophilic structures
- Produces an H&E-like staining appearance
- Nuclei stain blue and cytoplasm appears in varying shades of pink
- Compatible with frozen, paraffin, epoxy, and plastic-embedded sections
Applications
Frozen Section Staining
Multiple Stain Solution can be applied directly to fixed or unfixed frozen sections for rapid visualization of nuclear and cytoplasmic structures.
Plastic-Embedded Sections
The stain is compatible with JB-4®, JB-4 Plus®, glycol methacrylate (GMA), and methyl methacrylate (MMA) sections. Diluted stain may be used when additional control over staining intensity is desired.
Epoxy-Embedded Sections
Multiple Stain Solution can be used at full strength on thin epoxy resin sections to provide contrast between nuclei, cytoplasm, and other tissue components.
Cytology & Tzanck Preparations
The stain is used with smears, cell preparations, and Tzanck preparations where rapid differentiation of acidophilic and basophilic cellular structures is needed.
Compatibility & Bonding Considerations
- Suitable for fixed and unfixed frozen sections
- Compatible with paraffin, JB-4®, JB-4 Plus®, GMA, MMA, and epoxy sections
- Full-strength stain is recommended for epoxy sections
- A 3% to 5% dilution in deionized water may provide greater staining control for plastic sections
Staining intensity depends on section thickness, specimen preparation, stain concentration, exposure time, and subsequent dehydration. Keep staining and processing conditions consistent when comparing specimens.
Application Tips
- For rapid staining, apply full-strength Multiple Stain Solution for approximately 15 to 30 seconds, adjusting time for the desired intensity
- For plastic sections, a 3% to 5% dilution in deionized water may be stained for approximately 1 to 3 minutes
- Prepare diluted stain in small quantities and use within one week
- For epoxy sections, use the stain at full strength rather than diluted
- Dehydrate plastic sections quickly after staining to minimize loss of stain intensity or section lifting
For detailed staining procedures and preparation guidance, refer to the Multiple Stain Solution Technical Data Sheet (TDS).
Handling & Storage
- Store at room temperature with the container tightly closed
- Keep away from heat, sparks, open flames, and other ignition sources
- Handle 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 Multiple Stain Solution?
Multiple Stain Solution is a one-step histology and cytology stain containing toluidine blue O and basic fuchsin. It differentiates acidophilic and basophilic structures and produces blue nuclei with varying shades of pink in the cytoplasm.
2. Is Multiple Stain Solution the same as Paragon Multiple Stain?
Multiple Stain Solution is the Polysciences replacement for the former Paragon Multiple Stain (PMS) and is used in similar histology and cytology staining workflows.
3. What types of sections can be stained with Multiple Stain Solution?
It can be used with fixed and unfixed frozen sections, paraffin sections, epoxy sections, and plastic-embedded sections prepared with JB-4®, JB-4 Plus®, GMA, or MMA.
4. How long should Multiple Stain Solution be applied?
Full-strength stain is typically applied for approximately 15 to 30 seconds. A 3% to 5% aqueous dilution may be used for approximately 1 to 3 minutes when greater control is desired for appropriate plastic sections. See the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for detailed staining procedures.
5. What color results are produced by Multiple Stain Solution?
Nuclei stain blue, while cytoplasmic structures appear in varying shades of pink. Final intensity depends on specimen preparation, stain concentration, staining time, and processing conditions.
Safety & Documentation
Multiple Stain Solution is a flammable liquid. Use appropriate laboratory ventilation, protective gloves, and eye protection, and keep the solution away from heat, sparks, flames, and other ignition sources. Review the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for complete safety and handling information, the Technical Data Sheet (TDS) for staining procedures, and the product specification for current product specifications.
