Non-specificity of crystal violet staining for renin granules

This study deals with the histochemical specificity of crystal violet staining. Histological dyes such as crystal violet (CI 42555), ethyl violet (CI 42600) and methyl violet (CI 42535) are regularly employed for the assessment of juxtaglomerular granulation (WILSON 1952; FRIEDBERG and REID 1966; MARIUZZI and NENCI 1966). WILSON's modification of BOWIE's procedure is the staining method most frequently used for demonstration of 'renin granules' in the juxtaglomerular cells (JC). It has been assumed that JC granularity parallels renin-induced hypertension (PITTS 1968).