Differentiation of Articular and Epiphysial Cartilage, Based on Resorcin-CrystaeL Violet and Picro-Fuchsin Staining of Chondroitin Sulphate and Keratosulphate

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
Formalin-fixed decalcified knee joints of young vertebrates were embedded in paraffin wax and cut at 4[mu]. Sections were stained in Harris'' hematoxylin, washed in tap water, then immersed in the following staining solution for 60 min.: crystal violet, 1 gm; resorcin, 2 gm; distilled water, 100 ml; boiled for 3 min. , with constant stirring. After adding 30 ml of 30% FeCl3, it was boiled for 3 min. more. The solution was filtered. The precipitate was washed off with 50 ml of distilled water and 100 ml of absolute alcohol added. This was combined with the original filtrate and boiled for 5 min. The solution was filtered once more, the precipitate discarded and 2 ml of concentrated HC1 added. After cooling, the solution was ready for use. Sections were then washed briefly in tap water, stained in van Gieson''s picrofuchsin for 2 min. , and differentiated as they were dehydrated and brought to Xylene. The sections were mounted in a synthetic resin (D.P.X.). Articular type cartilage stains red and growth cartilage blue.