Elina hello,

Paragon staining is the old name of Multiple Stain Solution (MSS) - more info on it here:

http://www.polysciences.com/skin/frontend/default/polysciences/pdf/TDS%20269.pdf

As far as I know, the modified Paragon stain is a slight condition-based modification of the same formula (basic Fuchsin-Toluidine blue), but at 50°C and a pH 7.4.

As to a modification with Safranin O (if it exists), I cannot help, I am sorry.

:)

Paragon staining allows you to separate nuclei and cartilage-bone structures visually. But it doesnt indicate which part is bone and which part is cartilage. Safranin-o on the other hand stains specifically glycoseaminoglycans and allows you to identify cartilage areas. And as it stains the GAGs in red it may be a good choice for you to create contrast. If you can share your protocol i may be able to adress where to add safranin o into your protocol.

@Tayfun Dikmen

Thank you for your answer! We were planning on using this protocol:

1. Flood a few drops of the Paragon stain solution onto a horizontal slide, or stain vertically in a Coplin jar or other suitable container.

2. Wash with tap water.

3. Coverslip with water for immediate examination if desired.

4. Dehydrate, clear, and mount in resin.

Any help where to add the Safranin-o would be greatly appreciated!

@Valeria Tananska

Thank you so much for your answer!

So, just to clarify, a modifed Paragon is just at 50 degrees and have a pH at 7.4. How does one alternate the pH of the stain?

Elina,

I think it could be propriate to use safranin o after the washing (step2). You can drop 0.1% safranin o solution on the slide for 5 minutes.Then dehydrate. You can adjust the time of safranin o by experiments.