Combined immunocytochemistry and nucleolar organizer region staining: some technical aspects

We have examined the feasibility of combining immunocytochemistry with argyrophilic staining of nucleolar organizer regions (AgNORs) on a single preparation. The combined technique gave positive results on fixed tissues, with immunoalkaline phosphatase methods providing better contrast. On frozen sections, there were problems with adhesion and with immunostaining. Delayed fixation did not affect AgNOR staining, suggesting that the technique may be applied to autopsy tissue. Trypsinisation of sections did not alter the count of silver stained granules.