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Ruthenium Red

Updated: 2026-07-15

Overview

Ruthenium Red is an inorganic dye widely used in biological and medical research for its ability to stain extracellular polysaccharides and mucopolysaccharides. Its distinctive reddish-brown color and strong binding properties make it a valuable tool in microscopy and histology. The compound is derived from ruthenium, a rare transition metal, and is often used in electron microscopy to enhance contrast in cellular structures. First discovered in the early 20th century, Ruthenium Red has since become a staple in laboratories for visualizing cell walls and extracellular matrices. Its applications extend beyond staining, as it is also used to study calcium channels and mitochondrial function, making it a versatile reagent in cellular biology.

Physical and Chemical Properties

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Ruthenium Red is a reddish-brown powder with a molecular weight of 786.34 g/mol. It is soluble in water and slightly soluble in ethanol, making it suitable for aqueous staining solutions. The compound is stable under normal conditions but should be protected from light and moisture to prevent degradation. Chemically, Ruthenium Red is a polycationic complex, which allows it to bind strongly to negatively charged molecules like polysaccharides. This property is critical for its staining applications. The compound does not have a well-defined melting or boiling point, as it decomposes upon heating rather than melting.

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Main Applications

Ruthenium Red is primarily used in histological and cytological staining to visualize extracellular polysaccharides and mucopolysaccharides. It is particularly useful in electron microscopy, where it enhances the contrast of cell walls and extracellular matrices. The dye is also employed in research to study calcium channels, as it can block certain types of calcium influx in cells. In addition to its staining applications, Ruthenium Red is used to investigate mitochondrial function. It binds to the mitochondrial calcium uniporter, providing insights into calcium transport mechanisms. These diverse applications make it a valuable tool in both basic and applied biological research.

Safety and Storage

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Ruthenium Red should be handled with care, as it may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and respiratory system. Appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves and eye protection, should be worn when working with the compound. In case of contact, affected areas should be rinsed thoroughly with water. Storage conditions are critical to maintaining the stability of Ruthenium Red. It should be kept in a cool, dry place, away from light and moisture. The compound is typically supplied in sealed containers to prevent degradation. Proper storage ensures its efficacy and longevity in laboratory settings.

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B2B Procurement Guide

When procuring Ruthenium Red, it is essential to consider purity and supplier reliability. High-purity grades are recommended for research applications, as impurities can affect staining results and experimental outcomes. Buyers should verify the credentials of suppliers and request certificates of analysis to ensure product quality. Price ranges for Ruthenium Red vary depending on purity and quantity, with reference prices typically between $50 and $200 per gram. Bulk purchases may offer cost savings, but buyers should balance quantity with usage rates to avoid waste. Procurement professionals should also consider storage requirements and shelf life when planning purchases.

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