Safranine
What is Safranine?
Safranine (safranin) is a red cationic dye belonging to the phenazine class of aromatic heterocyclic compounds, widely used as a biological stain in histology, microbiology, and the Gram staining procedure. In Gram staining, safranine serves as the counterstain that colors Gram-negative bacteria (which have thinner peptidoglycan layers) red after decolorization, while Gram-positive bacteria retain the crystal violet primary stain and appear purple. Safranine is also used as a pH indicator and in the textile industry.
Key Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
Safranine (safranin) is a red cationic dye belonging to the phenazine class of aromatic heterocyclic compounds, widely used as a biological stain in histology, microbiology, and the Gram staining procedure. In Gram staining, safranine serves as the counterstain that colors Gram-negative bacteria (which have thinner peptidoglycan layers) red after decolorization, while Gram-positive bacteria retain the crystal violet primary stain and appear purple. Safranine is also used as a pH indicator and in the textile industry.