Inmunohistoquímica

Inmunohistoquímica, often abbreviated as IHC, is a laboratory technique used to identify the presence and location of specific antigens within tissue samples. This method leverages the highly specific binding affinity of antibodies to their corresponding antigens. In a typical IHC procedure, a tissue specimen is fixed and then exposed to a primary antibody that is designed to bind to the target antigen of interest. Following incubation with the primary antibody, a secondary antibody is applied. This secondary antibody is conjugated to an enzyme or a fluorescent marker, allowing for visualization. The enzyme converts a substrate into a colored precipitate at the site of antigen-antibody binding, or the fluorescent marker emits light that can be detected. This allows researchers and pathologists to observe where the specific protein or antigen is located within the cells and tissues. IHC is a powerful tool in various fields, including medical diagnostics, particularly in cancer research and pathology, where it aids in classifying tumors, determining prognosis, and guiding treatment decisions. It is also utilized in basic scientific research to study protein expression patterns and cellular functions.