The Dye-Staining of Micro-Organisms: A Review

The staining of micro-organisms is an essential feature of microscopy and is also an important aspect of solution adsorption. The present article is an attempt to arouse the interest of physical chemists in the subject of staining mechanisms, which has been to some extent neglected. The general physical and chemical features of the cells of micro-organisms are described in broad terms. The more common staining techniques are described and their mechanisms discussed from the chemist's point of view.