Problems inherent in obtaining the alkaline phosphatase reaction.

Problems encountered in the histochemical localization of alkaline phosphatase activity are discussed and solutions presented. The purpose is to achieve a reaction that can be studied by light and electron microscopy and to distinguish alkaline glycerophosphatase from inorganic pyrophosphatase activity. Details are presented concerning fixatives, fixation times, incubation media, enzyme inhibitors, activators, and associated techniques that can be used to obtain optimal histochemical results.