Wright Stain Method

EMS26060

Components:

Wright Stain Solution

Phosphate buffer pH 6.5

Fixation:

Streak thin (approximately one cell thick) smears across a sterile slide by means of a second slide or cover glass. Air dry quickly.

Staining:

1. Place 1.0ml of the Wright Stain Solution upon the smear 1 – 3 minutes.
2. Add 2.0ml distilled water or Phosphate buffer pH 6.5 and let stand twice as long as in step 1.
3. Rinse stained smear with water or the Phosphate buffer pH 6.5 until the edges show faintly pinkish-red.
4. For a Giemsa appearance stain 10 minutes in one volume Wright Stain and 4 volumes Phosphate buffer, pH 6.5.
5. Blot dry very carefully. Stain may be adjusted by further dilution or in the timing of either before or after dilution in the above procedure.

Stain Results:

References:

Conn, J I Biological Stains, 8th Ed.,Williams and Wilkins Co. Baltimore, 1969.

Clark, G (ed.) Staining Procedures, Williams and Wilkens Co., Baltimore, 3rd Ed., c 1972, p. 122