Endospore Stain, Schaeffer - Fulton Method
Sporulation:
A copy of the cell's chromosome and other cell essentials are "packaged" within several layers including a tough spore coat composed of keratin and spore specific proteins.
Why are endospores resistant to various chemicals and radiation?
Because of their tough spore coat composed of keratin and spore specific proteins.
Where do you typically find bacteria that produce endospores?
From bacteria in the soil.
When you've finished applying endospore stain, what color should the endospores be?
Green.
What is a vegetative cell?
Growing, dividing, and metaboically active cells that begin the process of sporulation.
What primary stain is used for an endospore stain?
Malachite green that becomes trapped in the spore coat.
What is colored by the counterstain?
Remains of the vegetative cells stains pink
What counterstain is used?
Safranin.
Why are endospores resistant to heat?
The interior of the endospore contains high concentrations of calcium and dipicolinicacid which make the endospore heat resistant by displacing water and making the dehydrated endospore non - metabolic.
When do vegetative cells form endospores?
When subjected to nutrient depletion.
Why do you steam your heat - fixed slide while applying the stain?
To make the stain penetrate, since the spore coat is resistant to stains.
