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Multiple Choice
Which staining technique allows differentiation of mycobacterial cells?
A
Acid-fast staining
B
Hematoxylin and eosin staining
C
Silver staining
D
Gram staining
Verified step by step guidance
1
Understand the purpose of staining techniques: Staining techniques are used to differentiate and identify various types of cells and microorganisms based on their structural and chemical properties.
Learn about mycobacteria: Mycobacteria are a group of bacteria characterized by a waxy cell wall, which makes them resistant to many common staining techniques.
Explore the acid-fast staining technique: Acid-fast staining is specifically designed to identify mycobacteria. It uses a dye that penetrates the waxy cell wall, allowing these bacteria to retain the dye even after being washed with an acid-alcohol solution.
Compare with other staining techniques: Hematoxylin and eosin staining is used for general tissue staining, silver staining is often used for fungi and certain bacteria, and Gram staining differentiates bacteria into Gram-positive and Gram-negative based on cell wall properties.
Conclude why acid-fast staining is suitable: Due to the unique cell wall structure of mycobacteria, acid-fast staining is the most effective technique for differentiating these cells from others.