Immunohistoanalüüs

Immunohistoanalüüs, also known as immunohistochemistry (IHC), is a laboratory technique used to detect and locate specific antigens in tissue samples. It relies on the principle of antibodies binding specifically to their target antigens, which are often proteins. The process typically involves preparing a tissue sample, often fixed and embedded in paraffin, and then sectioning it thinly. These sections are then exposed to a primary antibody that is designed to bind to the antigen of interest. Following this, a secondary antibody, which is conjugated to a detectable marker (such as an enzyme or a fluorescent dye), is applied. This secondary antibody binds to the primary antibody. The presence and location of the antigen are then visualized by detecting the signal from the marker. Enzymes like horseradish peroxidase or alkaline phosphatase are commonly used, which, upon addition of a suitable substrate, produce a colored precipitate at the site of antigen-antibody binding. Fluorescent markers allow for detection using a fluorescence microscope. Immunohistoanalüüs is a powerful tool in diagnostics, particularly in pathology for disease classification and prognosis, and in research for studying the distribution and function of proteins within cells and tissues. Its specificity allows for precise identification of target molecules, aiding in understanding disease mechanisms and developing targeted therapies.