What is the Role of the Mordant in Hematoxylin Staining?
The mordant plays a critical role in hematoxylin staining by forming a complex with hematein, enhancing its binding to cellular components. Aluminum salts (such as potassium alum) are commonly used as mordants, producing a blue color. Iron salts can also be used, resulting in a black or dark blue color. The choice of mordant affects the final staining outcome and is selected based on the specific requirements of the histological study.
