Quick Golgi method: Modified for high clarity and better neuronal anatomy

Abstract

The Golgi methods have long been used to study the neuronal soma, axons, dendritic arborization and spines. The major concerns of the Golgi method have been its unpredictable nature (inconsistency of impregnation of the stain), time consumed, tissue hardening and clear background, resulting in several modifications to improve the cellular visualization. In the present work we describe a modification of the rapid-Golgi method that takes the benefit of perfusion fixation (with rapid-Golgi solution) then post-fixation in the same fixative for 36 h followed by 36 h impregnation in aqueous AgNO₃ followed by vibratomy. This modification is simpler, faster and inexpensive, provides a consistent staining of neurons with good resolution of neuronal soma, dendritic arborization as well as spines with much reduced formation of silver chromate crystals and background in just 3 days.