Thionin acetate, C.I. 52000, is a Biological Stain Commission-certified cationic dye used in histological and cytological staining. Also known as Lauth’s violet, thionin produces blue to purple staining of nucleic acid-rich cellular structures.
Thionin staining is commonly used in neurohistology and Nissl staining procedures to visualize neuronal cell bodies and tissue cytoarchitecture. The dye interacts with negatively charged cellular components, including nucleic acids and RNA-rich Nissl substance.
Polysciences Product 01220 is a solid laboratory reagent for research staining workflows. Staining intensity and differentiation depend on solution preparation, tissue processing, and the selected staining protocol.
Key Properties
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Product number: 01220
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Product name: Thionin acetate
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Color index number: C.I. 52000
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CAS number: 78338-22-4
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Certification: Certified by the Biological Stain Commission
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Molecular formula: C12H9N3S · C2H4O2
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Molecular weight: 287.34 g/mol
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Appearance: Solid
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Synonyms: 3,7-Diamino-5-phenothiazinium acetate; Lauth’s violet
Applications
Nissl Staining & Neurohistology
Thionin is commonly used in Nissl staining procedures to visualize neuronal cell bodies and support examination of tissue cytoarchitecture in nervous system sections.
Nucleic Acid Staining
As a cationic biological dye, thionin stains nucleic acid-rich cellular components, including RNA-rich structures in the cytoplasm and nucleic acids within cell nuclei.
Histology & Cytology
Thionin acetate may be used in histological and cytological staining procedures where blue to purple contrast is needed for examination of cellular and tissue morphology.
Staining Considerations
Prepare and use thionin solutions according to a validated laboratory procedure. Final staining results may vary with tissue fixation, section thickness, solution concentration, staining time, pH, differentiation, and mounting conditions.
- Confirm compatibility with the selected specimen preparation and fixation method.
- Optimize staining and differentiation conditions for the specific tissue and workflow.
- Use appropriate controls when establishing or modifying a staining procedure.
- Follow institutional procedures for preparation, handling, and disposal of staining solutions.
Handling & Storage
Store at room temperature in a cool, well-ventilated location. Use appropriate engineering controls and personal protective equipment, including protective gloves and eye protection. Review the current product label and Safety Data Sheet before handling, preparing solutions, or disposing of the material.
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FAQ
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1. What is thionin acetate used for?
Thionin acetate is used as a biological stain in histology, cytology, neurohistology, and nucleic acid staining procedures. It is commonly used in Nissl staining of neuronal cell bodies.
2. Is thionin used for Nissl staining?
Yes. Thionin is commonly used in Nissl staining procedures to visualize neuronal cell bodies and RNA-rich Nissl substance within the cytoplasm.
3. What color does thionin staining produce?
Thionin typically produces blue to purple coloration in stained cellular and tissue structures. Final appearance depends on the staining procedure and specimen preparation.
4. Is Product 01220 certified by the Biological Stain Commission?
Yes. Polysciences Product 01220 is certified by the Biological Stain Commission.
5. What is the CAS number for thionin acetate?
The CAS number for thionin acetate is 78338-22-4.
6. What is another name for thionin acetate?
Thionin acetate is also known as 3,7-diamino-5-phenothiazinium acetate and Lauth’s violet.
7. How should thionin acetate be stored?
Store the product at room temperature in a cool, well-ventilated location. Follow the current product label and Safety Data Sheet for complete storage and handling guidance.
Safety & Documentation
This product is intended for laboratory use. Review the current Safety Data Sheet before handling or preparing staining solutions. Follow applicable institutional procedures for ventilation, personal protective equipment, spill response, storage, and disposal.
Safety information and handling requirements may change. Always consult the current product label and Safety Data Sheet for product-specific guidance.
