Immunohistochemistry

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a widely used technique in biomedical research and diagnostics that allows for the localization and visualization of specific proteins or antigens within tissue samples. It combines principles of immunology and histology to detect target molecules in their anatomical context. The process involves the use of specific primary antibodies that bind to the target antigen in the tissue section. These antibodies are typically labeled with enzymes, fluorophores, or other markers that enable their visualization. Through a series of steps including tissue preparation, antigen retrieval, blocking, antibody incubation, and detection, IHC provides valuable information about protein expression patterns, cellular localization, and tissue architecture. IHC has diverse applications in various fields such as cancer research, neuroscience, immunology, and pathology, aiding in the diagnosis, prognosis, and research of diseases. It enables researchers and clinicians to analyze tissue samples in a spatial and context-dependent manner, offering valuable insights into disease mechanisms and therapeutic strategies.