IHC leverages antibodies to pinpoint the location of proteins and other antigens within tissue sections. Given their high specificity, antibodies bind exclusively to their target antigens. This antibody–antigen interaction can then be visualized using either a colored enzyme substrate (chromogenic detection) or a fluorescent dye (fluorescent detection).
A successful IHC assay hinges on a reliable, well-optimized, consistent staining regimen employing high-quality, specific reagents. We provide an unmatched selection of recombinant, IHC-validated monoclonal antibodies and IHC antibody panels tailored for key research area-specific targets. In addition, we offer IHC detection kits, reagents, and accessories, all crafted to deliver highly specific and sensitive staining, even for the detection of low abundance markers. Achieve reliable and consistent results with our validated kits and reagents.
For IHC, ensuring you gather the necessary data on your first experiment is paramount. We recommend our tailored kits and reagents for the best outcomes, including:
- Buffers for heat-mediated and enzymatic antigen retrieval.
- Highly sensitive Labeled Streptavidin-Biotin LSAB ABC kits and micro-polymer EXPOSE kits for IHC detection and amplification (for mouse antibodies on mouse samples, consider our Mouse-on-Mouse kit).
- Biotin and micro-polymer conjugated secondary antibodies to customize your own ABC method.
- Optimized normal serums for blocking.
- IHC-validated primary antibodies.
With our optimized solutions, you can ensure efficient and accurate results from the start.
Our selection of double- and triple- staining IHC kits provides exceptional precision and versatility. These kits are carefully created to enable the simultaneous detection of two or three separate antigens within one tissue section all with our signature precision and efficiency, delivering a more detailed and nuanced comprehension of complex cellular environments.
Our range of additional reagents, controls, and accessory products ensures consistent and accurate results across a variety of applications. Whether you're using InstantBlue® Coomassie Protein Stain, lysis and RIPA buffers, dyes, or magnetic beads, you can find all the products you need in one place. These tools are designed to help you achieve reliable results, enhancing the precision and effectiveness of your research.
In addition to the IHC kits, we offer a wide array of secondary antibodies that deliver the specificity and sensitivity crucial for accurate detection. These secondary antibodies are meticulously optimized to minimize background staining while ensuring robust signal amplification. The combination of our kits and secondary antibodies not only simplifies your workflow but also enhances the reliability and reproducibility of your results. Harness these integrated solutions and elevate the quality of your IHC research.
FEATURES
Essential features
- Exceptional quality, comprehensive range, and rigorous validation processes distinguish our staining kits and secondary antibodies.
- Stringent quality control measures guarantee minimal background staining and robust signal amplification.
- Provides researchers with the clarity and precision needed for reliable results.
- Our kits come with all the necessary reagents and detailed protocols for easy, reliable, and reproducible results.
- Our double- and triple-staining kits conserve valuable samples and streamline workflows, significantly reducing the time and effort needed for multiple separate staining procedures whilst offering a more comprehensive understanding of cellular interactions and tissue architecture.
APPLICATIONS
Applications
- Neuroscience: Facilitates the study of co-localization of neuronal markers, aiding in the exploration of neural networks and pathways.
- Oncology: Enhances the understanding of intricate cellular interactions and tumor microenvironments.
- Pathological studies: Provides detailed insights into tissue architecture, assisting in the analysis of various diseases.
- Complex tissue analysis: Streamlines the process of detecting multiple antigens within a single tissue section, saving time and resources.
- Cellular interactions: Offers a comprehensive understanding of cellular interactions, which is critical for advancing various research fields.
FAQs
What is an IHC kit?
An IHC kit includes a set of reagents and tools specifically designed to detect antigens in tissue sections by immunohistochemistry. These kits typically contain the conjugated secondary antibody, buffers, and detection substrates.
What types of samples can be used for IHC?
IHC can be performed on various types of samples, such as paraffin-embedded tissue, frozen tissue sections, and cytology specimens. Each sample type requires specific preparation and handling techniques for optimal results.
What is the difference between IHC and immunofluorescence (IF)?
IHC utilizes chromogenic detection methods with colored enzyme substrates to visualize antigens, while IF uses fluorescent dyes. The choice between the two depends on the desired visualization method and sensitivity requirements.
Can IHC be used to detect multiple markers in the same tissue?
Yes, IHC can be employed to detect multiple markers within a single tissue section using techniques like double or triple staining. This allows for the simultaneous visualization of different antigens in the same sample.
What is the purpose of blocking in IHC?
Blocking in IHC is used to prevent the non-specific binding of antibodies to tissues, reducing background staining and enhancing the specificity of the signal. This step is crucial for achieving accurate and clear staining results.
Which reagent is commonly used in immunohistochemistry?
Primary and secondary antibodies are commonly used for detection in immunohistochemistry, along with buffers and substrates. These reagents work together to visualize the targeted antigens in tissue sections. Examples of substrates used in chromogenic detection include 3,3’-diaminobenzidine (DAB, brown), 3-amino-9-ethyl carbazole (AEC, red), tetramethylbenzidine (TMB, blue), 5-bromo-4-chloro-3-indolyl phosphate/nitro blue tetrazolium (BCIP/NBT, blue), and StayGreen (green), among others, each producing distinct colors depending on the enzyme used.
What markers are used in IHC?
Markers used in IHC include a wide range of proteins, peptides, and other antigens that are relevant to the specific research focus. These markers help identify and study various biological processes and disease states.
Can IHC be used for quantitative analysis?
Yes, IHC can be utilized for quantitative analysis by measuring the intensity and distribution of staining to assess antigen expression levels. This approach allows researchers to quantify and compare antigen presence in different samples.