Hi Donna,
	We do our PAS's on a Leica (Jung) Autostainer ( in addition to
the H&E's ). We keep the periodic acid on the machine, but store the
Schiff reagent in the fridge. Both reagents last a couple of weeks
without any ( apparent ) ill effects. The periodic is 1% aqueous and the
Schiff reagent we buy from BDH  ( 10 mins in each )
	Like Katri we use autopsy liver ( glycogen ) as a control,
although it can be difficult finding a decent one ( alternative is to
find a rabbit which has lived on a diet of carrots and do a quick liver
biopsy when it's back is turned ) and normal bowel for mucin controls.
	Alex Brown
	Crosshouse Hospital
	Kilmarnock, Scotland.
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From: Donna Carr
To: 'Histonet'
Subject: PAS problems
Date: 06 April 1999 20:00

Dear Fellow Histonetters,
    We are currently experiencing problems with our PAS/DPAS stain,  We
have replaced the Schiff reagent. And have tried different controls.  I
would greatly appreciate any advice on what tissues you use as controls
and methods of staining.  This is a recent problem that leads us to
believe it is either a contaminated reagent or bad control.  Any input
is welcome.   Thanks Donna