Both RDO and RDO Gold are unsurpassed decalicfiers that can be tailored to suit your specific lab routine. As with most acids, nuclei acids in the cell can become subject to ribonuclease digestion, resulting in a loss of basophilic properties. Careful monitoring should be used with RDO to avoid over decalcification. Decalcification will depend on the thickness and density of specimens. Overnight decalcification should be avoided. Full Strength RDO is used for hard compact bone, ie. femur heads. Both RDO and RDO Gold may be diluted with tap water to permit multipurpose use. Dilution with tap water is recommended for mildly calcified specimens such as bone marrow biopsies (core). In either case, the standard procedure should be to check the specimen periodically to determine the endpoint of decalcification.

Animal Tissue Techniques

Bone Marrow Biopsies

Method to Facilitate Sectioning

Parafin and Plastic Techniques

Soaking and Cutting

Bone Marrow Information

All tissues should be checked at least halfway through the time given.
12... = Check regularly for desired endpoint
Decalcification times prepared by Mary Parker, Durham, NC.