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Published on: November 14, 2016
Antigen retrieval immunohistochemistry and molecular morphology in the year 2001
S R Shi1, R J Cote, C R Taylor
1Department of Pathology, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles 90033, USA.
Insights
Antigen retrieval (AR) techniques are crucial for diagnostic immunohistochemistry (IHC). This review explores novel methods for molecular morphology diagnostics, emphasizing standardization and reproducibility in tissue analysis.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Molecular Biology
- Pathology
Background:
- Antigen retrieval (AR) is vital for diagnostic immunohistochemistry (IHC) and research.
- Numerous studies and reviews highlight the impact of AR techniques.
- Formalin fixation and AR 'unfixation' mechanisms require deeper understanding.
Purpose of the Study:
- To survey new approaches for retrieving nucleic acid and protein from archival paraffin-embedded tissues.
- To support molecular biology-based diagnostic procedures in the emerging field of molecular morphology.
- To identify methods that enhance standardization and reproducibility.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and analysis of existing antigen retrieval techniques.
- Examination of emerging molecular morphology diagnostic procedures.
- Focus on principles of standardization and reproducibility in tissue analysis.
Main Results:
- Current AR methods are well-established but require further optimization.
- New approaches are needed to improve nucleic acid and protein retrieval for molecular diagnostics.
- Standardization and reproducibility are key challenges for novel AR techniques.
Conclusions:
- Further research into AR mechanisms and novel techniques is essential for advancing molecular morphology.
- Implementing standardized and reproducible AR protocols is critical for reliable diagnostics.
- While new methods are explored, established AR procedures remain important for current laboratory practices.
Abstract:
The impact of the antigen retrieval (AR) technique upon diagnostic immunohistochemistry (IHC) and upon research has been demonstrated by numerous of articles and more than a dozen major reviews. The specific aim of this survey of the field is to examine potential new approaches to retrieval of nucleic acid and protein from archival paraffin-embedded tissue for molecular biology-based diagnostic procedures that form the basis of the emerging field of molecular morphology. Any new approach must incorporate the principles of standardization and improved reproducibility. The ultimate goal will be to understand the mechanisms of fixation (by formalin) and "unfixation" (by AR). In the interim, the diligent application of practical procedures that have been shown to be tried and true is the least that we must demand from ourselves and our laboratories.
