NisslFluorTM Silver Fluorescent Nissl Stain

Nissl substance, also termed chromophilic substance, exists as granular organelles in neuron cytoplasm. Named after its 19th-century discoverer, neurologist Franz Nissl, it consists of rough endoplasmic reticulum, RNA, and proteins and aids in protein synthesis for cell functions like growth and repair. Predominantly located in the neuron's soma, it's also in proximal dendrites but absent in axons. Its appearance and distribution vary based on the neuron type and activity. For instance, protein-synthesizing neurons like pyramidal cells contain large, basophilic Nissl chunks due to their maintenance needs, whereas sensory ganglion cells have dispersed, powdered forms. Typically, they're uniformly spread in the soma and dendritic regions, but their outward concentration might indicate neuronal damage or diseases, such as through central chromatolysis. Notably, after an axon is severed, its Nissl substance vanishes from the cell body. As a key neuronal activity and damage marker, changes in Nissl substance's size and distribution often signal stimuli response and are evident in conditions like Alzheimer's, where its reduction is linked to cognitive decline.

NisslFluorTM Silver Nissl stain will stain the soma and proximal reaches of dendrites, cytoplasm, and nuclei of neurons a fluorescent silver/white color under UV light excitation.

NisslFluorTM Silver RTD labeled neurons are visualized with UV light excitation (like those used for visualizing DAPI) . A quality DAPI-type filter set will work in more instances. A UV-light laser excitation (330-380 nm) can be used on a laser system.

Dilute solutions as directed in the protocol instructions. Sometimes, small precipitates may be present in the stock or diluted solutions. Complete mixing of the diluted solutions usually dissolves the precipitates.

The stock solution can be stored for up to 6 months after receipt at 2-8°C protected from light. No preservatives. Use sterile technique when handling and proper laboratory procedures. 1X solutions should be made fresh every day when in use.

Thin layer chromatography using alumina plates and a solvent system of ethanol and water (3:1) revealed the presence of fluorescent isomers. No amount of starting material was detected.

Staining Nissl substances are present in neuronal soma and dendrites, not typically found in axons. Note: Like their bright-field counterparts, Nissl stains will stain all cells in the brain, not just the neurons. However, the staining of non-neuronal cells will be limited to their nuclei and a very thin rim of cytoplasm. By contrast, the cytoplasm and proximal dendrites of the larger neurons will be quite prominent and easily noticeable.