How do Reactions with Biomolecules Affect Tissue Staining?
Different stains react with specific biomolecules, making it possible to highlight particular tissue components. For instance, Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) stain reacts with polysaccharides and mucosubstances, turning them magenta. This is particularly useful for identifying glycogen deposits and basement membranes in tissues. Similarly, Sudan IV stain is lipid-soluble and binds to fat, staining lipid droplets red.