Modules 4 and 5

Question 1

Why would we use Alcian Blue and PAS on the same slide?

Answer 1

To demonstrate both neutral and acid polysaccharides

Question 2

What kind of a dye do we use to demonstrate sulphated and carboxylated mucosubstances in the Alcian Blue stain?

Answer 2

Copper phthalocyanine dye

Question 3

Carbohydrate stain that can be used to demonstrate acid epithelial mucins. It uses a natural dye and can also be seen with a yellow counterstain. What stain is this?

Answer 3

Mucicarmine

Question 4

This procedure stains neutral mucopolysaccharides magenta. What is the procedure called?

Answer 4

PAS

Question 5

What two functional groups are carbohydrates split into?

Answer 5

Glycogen and mucin

Question 6

According to Culling’s system of carbohydrate classification, glycogen is the most important member of which group?

Answer 6

Group I: Neutral polysaccharides

Question 7

Which of Culling’s groups include cerebrosides and phosphatides?

Answer 7

Group IV: Glycolipids

Question 8

In the PAS method, what is the function of periodic acid?

Answer 8

To oxidize 1,2 glycol groups to aldehydes.

Question 9

Function of activated charcoal in preparing Schiff’s reagent

Answer 9

Removes impurities

Question 10

What can be done to ensure that a low pH is maintained when staining by the Alcian Blue pH 1.0 method?

Answer 10

Blot dry rather than rinsing in water

Question 11

What color do mast cells stain with toluidine blue?

Answer 11

Purple