Immunohistochemistry

Marsha Goldstein1, Simon Watkins

  • 1Bio-Reference Laboratories, Inc., Elmwood Park, New Jersey, USA.

Insights

This guide details immunohistochemistry methods for protein localization in cells and tissues. It covers fluorescence and bright-field microscopy, antibody selection, and troubleshooting for diverse research applications.

Area of Science:

  • Biochemistry
  • Cell Biology
  • Histology

Background:

  • Immunohistochemistry is a crucial technique for visualizing protein expression within biological samples.
  • Accurate protein localization is vital for understanding cellular functions and disease mechanisms.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide comprehensive methods for protein labeling and detection in various biological contexts.
  • To guide researchers in selecting appropriate antibodies and detection strategies.
  • To offer solutions for common challenges encountered during immunohistochemistry.

Main Methods:

  • Detailed protocols for protein labeling in suspension cells, adherent cultures, and tissue sections.
  • Application of both fluorescence and bright-field microscopy for protein detection.
  • Discussion on the selection criteria for antibodies and detection systems.

Main Results:

  • Successful implementation of protein localization techniques across different sample types.
  • Demonstration of effective protein detection using both fluorescence and bright-field imaging.
  • Provision of practical troubleshooting advice for optimizing experimental outcomes.

Conclusions:

  • This unit offers a robust framework for performing reliable immunohistochemistry.
  • Researchers can effectively localize proteins using the presented methods and guidelines.
  • The guide enhances the utility of immunohistochemistry in biological and medical research.

Related Concept Videos

Immunofluorescence Microscopy01:12

Immunofluorescence Microscopy

A fluorescence microscope uses fluorescent chromophores called fluorochromes, which can absorb energy from a light source and then emit this energy as visible light. Fluorochromes include naturally fluorescent substances (such as chlorophylls) and fluorescent stains that are added to the specimen to create contrast. Dyes such as Texas red and FITC are examples of fluorochromes. Other examples include the nucleic acid dyes 4’,6’-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI), and acridine orange.
The...
Immunocytochemistry and Immunohistochemistry01:22

Immunocytochemistry and Immunohistochemistry

Immunocytochemistry (ICC) and immunohistochemistry (IHC) are techniques that use antibodies to check for specific proteins or antigens in a sample. The technique was first published by Albert Coons in 1941 to detect the presence of pneumococcal antigen in tissue sections from mice infected with Pneumococcus. Immunocytochemistry helps localization of proteins or antigens in individual cells like blood cells, stem cells, etc., while immunohistochemistry does the same for tissue samples.
These...
Immunogold Electron Microscopy01:20

Immunogold Electron Microscopy

Immunoelectron microscopy utilizes immunogold labeling of endogenous proteins with specific antibodies to detect and localize these proteins in cells and tissues. The procedure provides insights into the distribution and quantification of protein under different stimulation conditions offering clues about their functions. Conjugating highly electron-dense gold particles with primary or secondary antibodies allow antigen detection on and within cells, with high resolution and specificity.