HEMATOXYLIN Meaning and
Definition
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Hematoxylin is a natural dye that is commonly used in histology and pathology laboratories for staining cell nuclei. It is a crystalline, yellowish-red compound derived from the heartwood of certain trees, particularly from species of the logwood tree (Haematoxylum campechianum). Hematoxylin is known for its high affinity to bind to nucleic acids, particularly DNA, making it an effective and widely used nuclear stain.
In laboratory settings, hematoxylin is primarily utilized in conjunction with other stains to provide contrast and improve visualization of tissue samples. It stains cell nuclei a deep blue or purple color, allowing researchers and pathologists to identify and differentiate different types of cells under a microscope. Additionally, hematoxylin can be used to stain other structures and substances, such as muscle fibers and collagen.
Hematoxylin staining involves multiple steps, including the application of a mordant (usually an aluminum salt) to enhance the dye's affinity to cellular components. After staining, the samples are usually counterstained with a contrasting dye, such as eosin, to highlight other cellular structures.
Apart from its utility in histology and pathology, hematoxylin has also been used as a natural dye for textiles and wood staining due to its attractive reddish color. It has a long history of use in various scientific disciplines and continues to be an indispensable tool in cellular and tissue analysis.
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A yellowish crystalline compound, C15H14O6, containing the coloring matter of hematoxylon or logwood; used as a dye in histology.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HEMATOXYLIN
- gematoxylin
- bematoxylin
- nematoxylin
- jematoxylin
- uematoxylin
- yematoxylin
- hwmatoxylin
- hsmatoxylin
- hdmatoxylin
- hrmatoxylin
- h4matoxylin
- h3matoxylin
- henatoxylin
- hekatoxylin
- hejatoxylin
- hemztoxylin
- hemstoxylin
- hemwtoxylin
- hemqtoxylin
Etymology of HEMATOXYLIN
The word "hematoxylin" is derived from Greek roots. "Hema" (αἷμα) means "blood" and "toxylon" (ξύλον) means "wood". The name can be traced back to the source of the dye, which is obtained from the wood of certain trees belonging to the genus Haematoxylum. The dye became commonly known as "hematoxylin" due to its reddish-purple color reminiscent of blood.
Similar spelling words for HEMATOXYLIN
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