Protocol for assessing GD2 on formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissue sections using immunofluorescence staining

Sareetha Kailayangiri1, Bianca Altvater1, Nicole Farwick2

  • 1Department of Pediatric Hematology and Oncology, University Children's Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany; Princess Máxima Center for Pediatric Oncology, Utrecht, the Netherlands.

STAR Protocols
|July 24, 2024
PubMed

Insights

This study introduces a new immunofluorescence protocol for accurately detecting disialoganglioside GD2 in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tumor tissues. The method enhances GD2 detection in challenging FFPE samples for improved diagnostic accuracy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Immunohistochemistry
  • Biomarker Detection

Background:

  • Disialoganglioside GD2 detection on tumor biopsies, particularly in FFPE tissues, is difficult due to its glycolipid nature and membrane anchoring.
  • Reliable GD2 assessment is crucial for certain cancer diagnostics and therapeutic strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To develop and present a robust immunofluorescence protocol for the reliable assessment of disialoganglioside GD2 in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues.
  • To overcome the challenges associated with GD2 detection in FFPE samples.

Main Methods:

  • The protocol involves antigen retrieval using Tris-EDTA buffer.
  • Staining utilizes an unconjugated anti-GD2 antibody (clone 14.G2a) and a horse radish peroxidase (HRP)-conjugated secondary antibody.
  • Tyramide signal amplification technique is employed for enhanced signal detection.

Main Results:

  • The described immunofluorescence protocol enables reliable detection of disialoganglioside GD2 on FFPE tissues.
  • The method addresses the inherent challenges of GD2 detection in fixed tissue samples.

Conclusions:

  • This protocol provides a valuable tool for researchers and clinicians needing to assess GD2 expression in FFPE tumor biopsies.
  • The optimized immunofluorescence method facilitates more accurate and consistent GD2 detection in challenging FFPE samples.

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