Mucicarmine is utilized in histology to visualize acid mucopolysaccharides in tissue sections. It identifies mucin (deep rose), aiding in the detection of mucin-positive cancers such as liver carcinoma [1].

Mucicarmine effectively stains mucin on frozen-tissue sections, appearing deep rose. To perform the staining, mount cryostat sections (4 to 5 μm thick) onto coated glass slides. Fix these sections in frozen-section fixative for 30 seconds, then rinse with water for 5 seconds. Immerse the slides in Harris hematoxylin for 30 seconds, followed by 5-second immersions in distilled water, ammonium hydroxide, and distilled water. Heat the mucicarmine stain in a microwave until it is about to bubble (approximately 30 seconds). Submerge the slides in the warmed mucicarmine solution for 2 minutes and rinse with distilled water for 5 seconds. Sequentially dip the slides in 95% alcohol, 100% alcohol, and xylene for 5 seconds each before coverslipping. Note: Nuclei (blue) and connective tissue (green) staining may be necessary based on specific requirements.