Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a laboratory technique that uses antibodies to detect specific proteins (antigens) within cells in a tissue sample. by identifying specific molecules (markers) that distinguish between different types and subtypes of the disease.
What it does:
- IHC uses antibodies designed to bind to specific proteins (antigens) within a tissue sample.
- The antibody-antigen reaction is visualized using various methods, such as enzymes or fluorescent dyes, which allow pathologists to see where the target protein is located within the tissue.
- IHC is particularly useful in diagnosing cancers by identifying specific proteins that indicate the type and origin of the cancer.
How IHC performed :
1. Tissue preparation:Tissue samples are prepared and fixed (often with formalin) to preserve their structure. 2. Antigen retrieval:The fixation process can sometimes block the antigen sites, so antigen retrieval techniques may be used to expose them. Then it replaces on the slides.3. Antibody binding:Specific antibodies are applied to the tissue sample, and they bind to their corresponding antigens. 4. Visualization:An enzyme or fluorescent dye is used to visualize the antibody-antigen complex, making it visible under a microscope.
IHC general applications:
- Cancer diagnosis:IHC is widely used to differentiate between different types of cancer and to determine the most effective treatment.
- Research:It helps researchers study protein expression patterns and understand disease mechanisms.
- Other diagnostic applications:IHC can also be used to diagnose various other diseases and conditions by identifying specific proteins in tissues.