AbstractOur investigation into the use of ion exchange resin-formic acid combination as an alternative method to other acidextraction procedures is reported. The bone specimens tested were selected from rat and mouse sternums, nasal cavities and ankles. After demineralization, they were routinely stained with hematoxylin and eosin and examined by light microscopy. The results with the resin-formic acid combination showed better tinctorial patterns, good preservation of cellular structures, and excellent definition of nuclear details.