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Writer's pictureAlan Sun

Breaking Down Immunohistochemistry: A Guide for the Modern Researcher

Through the use of biochemical, immunological, and anatomical techniques, immunohistochemistry (IHC) makes it possible to see particular tissue components by using appropriately labeled antibodies to bind selectively to target antigens inside the organ. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) can be used to observe and record the high-resolution distribution and localization of specific cellular components within cells and within their relevant histological context. The two stages of the IHC procedure are sample preparation and sample staining, notwithstanding the wide range of modifications and techniques.


Application

IHC is used in disease diagnosis, biological research, and medication development. For example, immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a diagnostic tool used by doctors to identify the type and location of a metastasis, pinpoint the initial tumor location, and determine the stage and grade of a malignancy. A variety of distinct non-neoplastic diseases and disorders can be diagnosed using immunohistochemistry (IHC) either as the main technique or as a confirming test. IHC can be used in a research setting to investigate a variety of subjects, such as the normal development of tissues and organs, pathological processes, wound healing, cell death and repair, and many more. It can also be used alone or in conjunction with other analytical techniques.



Usually, IHC slides are made by hand, processed in small batches, and stained. However, with the aid of automation and contemporary technologies, high-throughput sample preparation and staining is now achievable. The samples can be viewed using light or fluorescence microscopy, and advancements in the last 15 years have improved our ability to obtain images, quantify multiparametric IHC data, and gather additional data through high content screening. These are a few amazing examples of IHC staining results made with Thermo Scientific Invitrogen's extra IHC chemicals and antibodies.


There are 5 steps associated ensure a good staining result:

  • Sample preparation

  • Antigen retrieval

  • Background blocking

  • Target detection

  • Sample visualization


I became aware of this method and study as I will be participating an in an internship where I can get hands-on experience with this technique. I can't wait to step on site and actually operate the machine. Thank you so much for reading this blog, and I'll catch y'all next time!

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