The Amyloid Stain kit is a special stain technique to identify amyloid in tissue sections. Amyloid, a fiber-like protein, can be stained with Congo Red solution. Sodium Hydroxide is added to the solution to break down hydrogen bonds between adjacent amyloid fibers allowing more bonding sites for the Congo Red. A light counterstain with Mayer’s hematoxylin allows contrast. Amyloid can be best detected by the use of green birefringence under a polarized lens of a light microscope. Care should be taken to section tissue sections at a thickness of 7-10 microns for optimal staining.

Mayer’s Hematoxylin

Mayer’s Hematoxylin