DNA and RNA are 2 types of nucleic acids, which have different staining
properties. DNA is acidic and stains acidic dyes, while RNA with proteins
stains basic dyes. The 2 stains used are methyl green and pyronine. DNA stains
blue or bluish-green with methyl green and RNA stains pink with pyronine
DNA is present in the nucleus and stains blue or bluish-green, while RNA
is present in the cytoplasm and stains pink.
- Cultured paramecia
- Cavity slides
- Plain slides
- Cover slips
- Methyl green and pyronine stains 0.5%
- Pipette out a few paramecia onto a cavity slide.
- Blot out excess water using filter paper.
- Put 2 or 3 drops of methyl green pyronine stain and keep it for 5–10
- Transfer the paramecia onto a clean slide. Put them under a cover slip in
an aqueous medium.
- Observe under the microscope.
DNA (nucleus) stained blue and RNA (cytoplasm) stained pink.