Janus Green B

Janus Green B

Chemical structure of Janus Green B

Janus Green B is a vital stain used in cell biology and histology to selectively stain certain cellular components. It is particularly known for its ability to stain mitochondria in living cells, making it a valuable tool in the study of cellular respiration and mitochondrial function.

Chemical Properties

Janus Green B is a phenazine dye, which is a class of heterocyclic compounds. It is characterized by its ability to change color depending on the redox state of the environment. In its oxidized form, Janus Green B appears blue, while in its reduced form, it turns pink. This property makes it useful for indicating the metabolic activity of cells.

Applications in Cell Biology

Janus Green B in its oxidized form

In cell biology, Janus Green B is primarily used to stain mitochondria. When applied to living cells, the dye penetrates the cell membrane and accumulates in the mitochondria. The color change from blue to pink indicates active electron transport and ATP synthesis, as the dye is reduced by the mitochondrial respiratory chain. This makes Janus Green B a useful indicator of mitochondrial health and cell viability.

Usage in Histology

In histology, Janus Green B is used to stain tissue sections to highlight the presence and distribution of mitochondria. It is often used in combination with other stains to provide a comprehensive view of cellular structures. The dye's ability to indicate metabolic activity also aids in distinguishing between different cell types based on their mitochondrial content.

Safety and Handling

As with many chemical dyes, proper safety precautions should be taken when handling Janus Green B. It should be used in a well-ventilated area, and appropriate personal protective equipment such as gloves and goggles should be worn to prevent skin and eye contact.

Related Pages

• Mitochondrion
• Vital stain
• Cellular respiration
• Histology
• Phenazine