IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL STAINING Meaning and
Definition
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Immunohistochemical staining is a laboratory technique used in histology and pathology to detect and visualize specific antigens or proteins within tissue samples. It involves the application of antibodies that are specific to the protein of interest, which bind to the target antigen in the tissue section.
The process of immunohistochemical staining begins with the preparation of thin tissue sections, typically from formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded samples. These sections are then mounted onto glass slides. To ensure accurate and reliable staining, tissue sections must undergo a series of pre-treatment steps, including antigen retrieval and blocking, to enhance antigen exposure and reduce non-specific binding.
Next, primary antibodies are applied to the tissue sections, directly targeting the specific protein or antigen being studied. These antibodies bind to the target antigen, forming an antibody-antigen complex. To detect this complex, a secondary antibody is introduced. Secondary antibodies are conjugated to a detection molecule, such as an enzyme or fluorescent dye, allowing for visualization of the antigen-antibody complex.
Following the addition of the secondary antibody, a specific detection method is employed, depending on the visualization technique. Enzyme-mediated systems typically involve the addition of a chromogen substrate that produces a visible color change. Fluorescent systems, on the other hand, allow for the use of fluorescence microscopy to visualize the antigen-antibody complexes.
Immunohistochemical staining plays a crucial role in the diagnosis, research, and characterization of various diseases, including cancer. It allows for the identification, localization, and quantification of specific proteins or antigens within tissue samples, providing valuable information about their expression patterns and cellular localization.
Common Misspellings for IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL STAINING
- ummunohistochemical staining
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Etymology of IMMUNOHISTOCHEMICAL STAINING
The etymology of the word "immunohistochemical staining" can be broken down as follows:
1. Immunology: The term "immuno-" is derived from the Latin word "immunis", meaning "free" or "exempt". Immunology refers to the branch of medicine and biology that deals with the immune system, immune responses, and how they protect the body from foreign substances.
2. Histochemistry: The term "histo-" is derived from the Greek word "histos", meaning "tissue". Histochemistry refers to the study of the biochemical components and activities within tissues.
3. Chemical: The term "chemical" refers to substances having properties related to chemistry, such as composition, reaction, behavior, and use.
