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Updated: Jun 27, 2026
Immunohistochemistry on Paraffin Sections of Mouse Epidermis Using Fluorescent Antibodies
Published on: January 8, 2008
Immunohistochemistry on paraffin sections of mouse epidermis using fluorescent antibodies
Tammy-Claire Troy1, Azadeh Arabzadeh, Adebola Enikanolaiye
1Chronic Disease Program, Ottawa Health Research Institute.
Insights
This study details a reliable immunohistochemistry method for localizing proteins within skin (epidermis) layers. The protocol is optimized for both frozen and paraffin sections, aiding in understanding protein function.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Cell Biology
- Histology
Background:
- Immunohistochemistry is crucial for identifying protein localization within the skin's epidermis.
- Understanding protein compartmentalization (basal, suprabasal, stratum corneum) offers insights into epidermal function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a robust and routinely used method for epidermal immunolocalization.
- To provide protocols adaptable for both frozen and paraffin-embedded tissue sections.
Main Methods:
- The described method involves immunohistochemistry adapted for skin tissue.
- Protocols for both frozen and paraffin-embedded sections are detailed.
- Two fixation methods (Bouin's and paraformaldehyde) for paraffin sections are discussed, emphasizing antibody compatibility.
Main Results:
- The study provides a reliable protocol for protein localization in epidermal layers.
- Both frozen and paraffin sectioning methods are validated.
- The choice of fixative impacts results, requiring consideration of antibody specifications.
Conclusions:
- The presented immunohistochemistry technique enhances the study of epidermal protein localization.
- Adaptability for different tissue preparations (frozen vs. paraffin) increases its utility.
- Careful selection of fixation methods is essential for successful immunolocalization.
Abstract:
In the epidermis, immunohistochemistry is an efficient means of localizing specific proteins to their relative expression compartment; namely the basal, suprabasal, and stratum corneum layers. The precise localization within the epidermis of a particular protein lends clues toward its functional role within the epidermis. In this chapter, we describe a reliable method for immunolocalization within the epidermis modified for both frozen and paraffin sections that we use very routinely in our laboratory. Paraffin sections generally provide much better morphology, hence, superior results and photographs; however, not all antibodies will work with the harsh fixation and treatment involved in their processing. Therefore, the protocol for frozen sectioning is also included. Within paraffin sectioning, two fixation protocols are described (Bouin's and paraformaldehyde); the choice of fixative will be directly related to the antibody specifications and may require another fixing method.
