What Are Common Types of Molecular Staining Techniques?
Several molecular staining techniques are frequently used in histology:
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) IHC involves the use of antibodies to detect specific antigens in tissue sections. The antibodies are typically conjugated with enzymes or fluorescent dyes, allowing visualization under a microscope.
In Situ Hybridization (ISH) ISH is used to detect nucleic acids (DNA or RNA) within tissue sections. This technique employs labeled complementary DNA or RNA probes that hybridize to the target sequences.
Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH) FISH is a type of ISH that uses fluorescent probes to detect and localize specific DNA sequences in tissue sections. This method is particularly useful for identifying chromosomal abnormalities.
Periodic Acid-Schiff (PAS) Staining PAS staining is used to detect polysaccharides such as glycogen and mucosubstances like glycoproteins and glycolipids. The staining reaction highlights these molecules in magenta.
