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

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

Medical Diagnostics

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

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

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

• Acid-fast
• Mycobacterium tuberculosis
• Auramine-rhodamine stain