Used in histology to selectively stain acidic polysaccharides, particularly glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) in cartilage tissue. The solution binds to sulfate and carboxyl groups in chondroitin sulfate and keratan sulfate, enabling clear visualization of cartilage matrix under microscopic examination. Commonly applied in studies of joint diseases, bone development, and cartilage degeneration, such as osteoarthritis research. Also used in quality assessment of tissue-engineered cartilage and in diagnostic pathology to evaluate cartilage structure and integrity in biopsy samples.