Hematoksyliini

Hematoksyliini is a natural dye derived from the heartwood of the logwood tree, Haematoxylum campechianum. It is primarily used as a histological stain, a vital component in microscopy for visualizing cellular structures. The dye itself is colorless but upon oxidation, it forms hematein, the active staining compound. Hematoxylin is typically used in conjunction with a mordant, most commonly aluminum salts, which help to bind the dye to tissue components. This mordanting process is crucial for its effectiveness.

The most well-known application of hematoxylin is in the Hematoxylin and Eosin (H&E) stain, a cornerstone of diagnostic pathology. In H&E staining, hematoxylin stains cell nuclei a deep blue or purplish color, while eosin stains the cytoplasm and extracellular matrix pink or red. This differential staining allows pathologists to examine tissue morphology and identify abnormalities. Hematoxylin's ability to selectively bind to acidic components within the nucleus, such as DNA and RNA, is responsible for its characteristic nuclear staining. Beyond H&E, hematoxylin is also used in various other staining protocols for specific cellular or tissue components. Its widespread use is attributed to its reliability, affordability, and the distinct contrast it provides in microscopic examination.