What Techniques Are Used for Biomarker Quantification?
There are several techniques used to quantify biomarkers in histology:
Immunohistochemistry (IHC): This technique uses antibodies to detect specific antigens (proteins) in tissue sections. The results are usually visualized using chromogenic or fluorescent labels. In Situ Hybridization (ISH): This technique is used to detect specific nucleic acid sequences within tissue sections. Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization (FISH): A specialized form of ISH that uses fluorescent probes to detect and localize specific DNA or RNA sequences in tissue sections. Quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction (qPCR): Although primarily used on extracted nucleic acids, qPCR can be applied to small tissue samples to quantify specific DNA or RNA sequences. Mass Spectrometry: This advanced technique is used to quantify proteins and other molecules within tissues, providing high sensitivity and specificity.
