Auramine o
Auramine O is a diarylmethane dye used as a fluorescent stain. In its pure form, Auramine O appears as yellow needle crystals. It is very soluble in water and soluble in ethanol. Auramine O can be used to stain acid-fast bacteria (like the tuberculosis bacterium), where it binds to the mycolic acid in the cell wall.
History[edit | edit source]
Auramine O was first synthesized in 1886 by the German chemist Carl Gräbe. It was initially used as a dye for textiles and paper. In the early 20th century, it was discovered that Auramine O could be used as a stain for acid-fast bacteria, leading to its use in medical diagnostics.
Uses[edit | edit source]
Medical Diagnostics[edit | edit source]
In medical diagnostics, Auramine O is used in the Auramine-rhodamine stain, a staining technique used to identify acid-fast bacteria. This technique is particularly useful in diagnosing tuberculosis.
Industry[edit | edit source]
In industry, Auramine O is used as a dye for textiles, paper, and leather. It is also used in the manufacture of colored papers, inks, and crayons.
Health Effects[edit | edit source]
Exposure to Auramine O can cause skin and eye irritation. Ingestion or inhalation can lead to nausea, vomiting, and respiratory irritation. Long-term exposure can lead to liver and kidney damage.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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