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Quantitation of Protein Expression and Co-localization Using Multiplexed Immuno-histochemical Staining and Multispectral Imaging
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Validation of immunocytochemistry as a morphomolecular technique

Perry Maxwell1, Manuel Salto-Tellez1

  • 1Northern Ireland Molecular Pathology Laboratory, Belfast Health & Social Care Trust and Queen's University, Belfast, United Kingdom.

Cancer Cytopathology
|February 3, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Immunocytochemistry (ICC) provides a valuable method for analyzing cells when tissue samples are challenging to obtain. This study introduces a rigorous three-step validation protocol for ICC, emphasizing a comprehensive morphomolecular approach for therapeutic applications.

Area of Science:

  • Cytopathology
  • Molecular Pathology
  • Clinical Laboratory Science

Background:

  • Immunocytochemistry (ICC) is an established technique for analyzing cellular material, particularly when tissue biopsies are difficult to obtain.
  • Unlike immunohistochemistry (IHC), ICC analyzes isolated cells, offering rapid fixation that protects cellular integrity.
  • Preanalytic variables, including fixation, are critical for ICC test quality and require careful control.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To propose a rigorous three-step validation protocol for Immunocytochemistry (ICC).
  • To advocate for a comprehensive morphomolecular approach in ICC validation.
  • To emphasize the application of validated ICC in therapeutic contexts.

Main Methods:

  • A three-step validation protocol for Immunocytochemistry (ICC) is presented.
  • The protocol emphasizes a morphomolecular approach, integrating cellular morphology with molecular analysis.
  • The validation process is designed to meet the rigorous standards of molecular pathology techniques.

Main Results:

  • The proposed protocol ensures a comprehensive validation of ICC assays.
  • The approach facilitates the reliable use of ICC for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.
  • Immediate and rapid fixation in ICC protects cellular morphology and integrity.

Conclusions:

  • A robust, three-step validation protocol is essential for Immunocytochemistry (ICC).
  • A morphomolecular approach enhances the reliability and utility of ICC.
  • Validated ICC is crucial for advancing therapeutic applications in cancer diagnostics.

Keywords:
immunocytochemistrymolecular diagnosticsmorphomoleculartest validation

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