Cellulose is a polysaccharide comprised of 3,000+ glucose molecules. Cellulose is the foundation of plant cell walls and makes up 33% of all plant matter on Earth. 

Aniline Blue can be used to fluorescently stain callose and cellulose in plant cells. Aniline Blue is not hazardous, but it can be a mild irritant if inhaled. Wearing goggles, gloves and a mask is recommended.

Staining Procedures

Fluorescence brightener 28 (or Calcofluor M2R) was originally used to determine the location of chitin within fungal skeletons. While the chemical is a serious eye irritant, it is generally not hazardous. An eyeshield/goggles, gloves, and a mask are recomended for use when handling fluorescence brightener 28.

Staining Procedures

Ruthenium Red stain pectin, a protein found in the cell wall of various plants. Ruthenium Red is an acute oral toxin and a serious eye irritant. Suggested PPE includes a mask, goggles, and gloves. 

Staining Procedures