Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a key technique for identifying antigens (proteins) in cells and tissues, leveraging the specific binding of antibodies to visualize protein expression. Developed from immunofluorescence in the 1940s, IHC is essential in cancer diagnostics and research. AREX Biosciences provides high-quality IHC antibodies that enhance the accuracy of this technique across various applications.

Applications in Cancer Diagnosis and Research

IHC is widely used to diagnose abnormal cells in cancerous tumors by detecting specific tumor antigens. It is also vital in research for understanding the distribution of biomarkers within tissues. AREX offers a range of validated IHC antibodies, supporting researchers in uncovering important biological insights.

Sample Preparation and Fixation

Effective sample preparation is crucial for successful IHC analysis. Tissue samples can be fixed in 10% neutral buffered formalin or frozen, with fixation times typically around 24 hours. AREX provides quality reagents and guidance to ensure optimal tissue preparation for accurate antigen detection.

Sectioning and Antigen Retrieval

Tissue sectioning is done using a microtome, with standard thicknesses of 4 μm for paraffin-embedded samples. Antigen retrieval is often necessary for formalin-fixed tissues to expose epitopes that may be masked. AREX emphasizes proper retrieval techniques, improving signal clarity and reliability in staining results.

Blocking and Reducing Background Staining

Minimizing non-specific antibody binding is essential for clear staining. Using blocking agents like normal serum or specialized buffers can help reduce background noise. AREX offers effective blocking solutions to ensure cleaner, more interpretable IHC results, enhancing the overall quality of research findings.