Protein expression and localization can be detected by antibodies in tissues and cells using IHC and ICC staining techniques, respectively. While a rigorously tested antibody will offer target specificity, the techniques employed in sample preparation, staining parameters and detection systems play an important role in achieving optimal staining and target visualization in your samples.
The following IHC and ICC staining protocols have been developed and optimized by R&D Systems team of in-house scientists. These protocols reflect techniques for chromogenic and immunofluorescent (IF) staining, experimental design, helpful hints and troubleshooting, and preparation of samples.
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) Protocols
Protocol for the Preparation and Fluorescent IHC Staining of Frozen Tissue Sections
Protocol for the Preparation and Chromogenic IHC Staining of Paraffin-embedded Tissue Sections
Protocol for the Preparation and Fluorescent IHC Staining of Paraffin-embedded Tissue Sections
Troubleshooting Guide: Immunohistochemistry
Immunocytochemistry (ICC) Protocols
Protocol for the Preparation and Fluorescent ICC Staining of Non-adherent Cells
Protocol for the Preparation and Fluorescent ICC Staining of Stem Cells on Coverslips
Additional Protocols and Helpful Techniques
Appropriate Fixation of IHC/ICC Samples
Designing a Successful IHC/ICC Experiment
Detection & Visualization of Antibody Binding
Preparing Samples for IHC/ICC Experiments
Preventing Non-specific Staining
Primary Antibody Selection & Optimization
Protocol for Heat-Induced Epitope Retrieval (HIER)
Protocol for Making a 4% Formaldehyde Solution in PBS
Protocol for the Preparation & Fixation of Cells on Coverslips
Protocol for the Preparation of Gelatin-coated Slides for Histological Tissue Sections
Protocol for VisUCyte™ HRP Polymer Detection Reagent
The Importance of IHC/ICC Controls