In the Methyl green-Pyronin method, what color is DNA stained?

In the Methyl green-Pyronin method, DNA is specifically stained a blue color. This technique utilizes methyl green, which has an affinity for DNA in the nuclei, preferentially staining it and thus allowing for the differentiation between DNA and RNA in the cellular context.

The methyl green component binds to the phosphate backbone of DNA, resulting in this distinct blue color, which facilitates visualization under a microscope. The pyronin component of the method stains RNA and yields a different color, allowing for a clear distinction between the two nucleic acids. Understanding the mechanism of this staining technique is essential for histopathologic analysis, particularly in studies focused on cellular composition and pathology.