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Immunogold probes for light microscopy

J E Beesley1

  • 1Wellcome Research Laboratories, Beckenham, UK.

Methods in Molecular Biology (Clifton, N.J.)
|November 15, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Immunocytochemistry techniques use microscopic markers to locate antigens. Advances include immunofluorescence, immunoenzyme methods like peroxidase and alkaline phosphatase, and newer colloidal gold probes for light microscopy.

Area of Science:

  • Immunocytochemistry
  • Microscopy
  • Biochemical Assays

Background:

  • Immunocytochemistry relies on antigen localization using microscopically detectable markers.
  • The field originated with immunofluorescence techniques for antigen detection.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the evolution and application of various immunocytochemical techniques.
  • To highlight the development and utility of different microscopic markers in antigen localization.

Main Methods:

  • Review of historical and contemporary immunocytochemical methodologies.
  • Description of immunofluorescence, immunoenzyme (peroxidase, alkaline phosphatase), and colloidal gold probe techniques.

Main Results:

  • Immunofluorescence and immunoenzyme techniques (peroxidase-antiperoxidase, alkaline phosphatase) are standard for immunohistochemistry.
  • Colloidal gold probes, initially for electron microscopy, are now applicable to light microscopy.

Conclusions:

  • Diverse microscopic markers have been developed to enhance antigen localization sensitivity and specificity.
  • Colloidal gold probes represent a recent advancement with potential in light microscope immunocytochemistry.

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