Lead Citrate 3% - Ready to Use Solution

Important storage information for lead citrate:

DO NOT STORE AT 4°C! ALWAYS STORE AT ROOM TEMPERATURE!

CO2 is the main contaminant that inhibites lead citrate staining by generation of insoluble lead carbonate (milky white). Storage at low temperatures leads to CO2 contamination due to higher dissolution of CO2 in water.

Always keep the cap closed to minimize CO2 contamination. If lead citrate solution becomes white milky the product is irreversible CO2 contaminated and has to be discarded.

There is no expiration date of lead citrate solution if kept CO2 free.

Distilled water - the second source of CO2 contamination during staining:

Always use freshly prepared distilled water at ROOM TEMPERATURE. Never use distilled water stored at 4°C.
Distilled water stored at 4°C is enriched in CO2 and contaminates the preparation during the rinsing steps of the contrasted sections. In this case the water is the source of contamination and not UranyLess or lead citrate.

How to overcome and discharge CO2 enriched distilled water:

• Vacuum degassing of water, or
• Boil water and let cool to RT before use.

Further Information:

UranyLess has a strong contrasting power, however Lead Citrate counterstain is recommended to enhance the contrast.

Follow the protocol of the UranyLess/Lead Citrate double contrast by watching the video: