THE HISTOCHEMICAL DETECTION OF ZINC

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Abstract
A histochemical technique specific for zinc was achieved by means of a dithizone complex-forming solution. With this solution, zinc in prostate and stomach sections could be clearly differentiated from other metallic constituents. Dithizone in aqueous-acetone solution alone demonstrated non-specific staining in stomach, prostate, pancreas, and erythrocytes and fat of dog, man, rabbit, and rat. The staining of metals as contrasted with fat concentration of the dye was shown by loss of stain in tissues previously chelated with ethylenediaminetetracetic acid. Staining of phagocytized zinc oxide in macrophages indicated penetration of the cellular membranes by dithizone. Zinc acetate given intravenously to rabbits showed a marked concentration of zinc in the epithelial cells of small and large intestine. This experiment indicated that the intestines, particularly the small intestine, were a possible excretory route for zinc.