Sample and Sectioning
Immunohistochemistry
Imaging – Fluorescence / Confocal
Qualitative Histology
Quantitative Histology
Immunohistochemistry (IHC) combines anatomical, immunological, and biochemical techniques to image discrete components in tissues by specific antigen-antibody reactions.
IHC is often used in drug development to test drug efficacy by detecting either the activity or the up- or down-regulation of disease markers in the target tissues and elsewhere. Digital image analysis and whole slide imaging which are based on immunohistochemical staining provide highly accurate and objective evaluations. For now, IHC is mainly used to identify therapeutic response in two types of tumours that are under the growth regulation of the hormones oestrogen & androgen. IHC also assists with target validation and safety, and can be used for studying drug metabolism. Furthermore, by antigen staining, IHC can be used for indirect detection of a target to a specific neuron, and allows comparing of drug response with dose and/or exposure.