immunhistokémiai

Immunohistochemistry is a laboratory technique used to detect and locate specific proteins within cells or tissue samples. It utilizes the principle of antibody-antigen binding, where antibodies are designed to specifically target and attach to a particular protein of interest. These antibodies are then labeled with a detectable marker, such as an enzyme or a fluorescent dye. When applied to a tissue sample, the labeled antibodies bind to their target proteins, allowing researchers and clinicians to visualize the location and abundance of these proteins.

The process typically involves several steps. First, the tissue sample is prepared, often by fixing it to preserve its structure. Then, the tissue is permeabilized to allow the antibodies to enter the cells. Blocking steps are employed to prevent non-specific binding of antibodies. The primary antibody, which targets the protein of interest, is then incubated with the tissue. Following this, a secondary antibody, which is conjugated to a detectable label, is added. This secondary antibody binds to the primary antibody. Finally, a substrate is added that reacts with the enzyme label, producing a visible precipitate or color change, or the fluorescence of the label is directly observed. Immunohistochemistry is widely used in research for understanding cellular processes and in diagnostics, particularly in cancer pathology, to identify tumor types and guide treatment decisions.