Fibrillization

Congo Red:

Sodium Chloride, Stock Solution, Saturated:

Sodium Chloride           3.0 gm (originally written 30.0 gm, we think this is too much)

Distilled Water  200.0 mL

Mix well, then add:

100% alcohol (EtOH)               800.0 mL

Label, date and initial.  Solution is stable for 1 year.

CAUTION: Flammable.

Working Soltuion:

Stock sodium chloride              50.0 mL

1% sodium hydroxide               0.5 mL

Make immediately before use, discard.

Congo Red Stock Solution, Saturated:

Congo red stain                        1.0 gm

Stock sodium chloride              500.0 mL

Mix well.  Date and initial.  Solution is stable for 6 months.

CAUTION: Flammable, avoid contact and inhalation.

Working Solution:

Stock Congo red solution         50.0 mL

1% sodium hydroxide               0.5 mL

Filter through glass wool, solution should be a clear, not cloudy orange/red.  Use immediately, discard after use.

Safety:  Wear gloves, goggles and lab coat.  Work in well ventilated area, wear particle mask when preparing dye solutions.

Sodium Hydroxide: severe irritant to skin and eyes.  Corrosive to skin and eyes.  Can cause burns.

Congo Red:  Developmental abnormalities were produced in mouse fetuses after chronic feeding studies.  Causes vascular changes in humans after ingestion.

Thanks to Putchler for the above solutions.