Comparisons of Pyronin Dyes Obtained from Various Commercial Sources. 1. History

Abstract

The history of pyronin dyes is discussed, beginning with the synthesis of pyronin Y(G) in 1889. The chemical structures of the dyes are given in addition to references to literature describing methods of synthesis. The early histological use of pyronins is described as well as the distribution and use of pyronins in the U. S. A. and Europe. Further discussion is devoted to the use of pyronins for histochemical demonstration of ribonucleic acid, especially in relation to sources, dye variability, contamination, and substitution by rhodamines. Additional studies with improved pyronins are advocated to evaluate histochemical staining mechanisms and to investigate possible quantitative uses.