Cell science

Notes on the development of microscopy, techniques in histology and methods for the preparation of classical staining solutions and reagents. Our focus is on immunohistological and molecular-specific principles for the visualization of biomarkers. Application examples emphasize their usefulness for the study of cellular differentiation in ontogenesis, cancer research and histopathology.

Innovative methods provide insights into structural details. Complex methods enable high specificity.

Immunohistological cell labeling requires specific antibodies. Moreover, the detection of antigen-antibody reactions in tissue is based on the use of marker molecules with defined physico-chemical properties. Suitable marker molecules are, for example, fluorochromes and enzymes as reporters of selective binding reactions.

Biomarkers can be visualized in histological preparations using direct or indirect labeling principles. The appropriate format is selected from testing a variety of options. Generally, the best format must be adapted to the specific requirements. This concerns both the properties of the organ tissue and the molecules to be detected.

Selection of frequently used reagents and solutions for immunohistology, cytochemistry and biochemistry. The purity of the reagents is the key for the quality of results.

Examples of investigations of biomarkers in tissue sections for the localization of oncofetal proteins (alpha-fetoprotein), enzymes and glycoconjugates in experimental models and in histopathological preparations.

Microscopic-histological detection of biochemically defined cell structures with monoclonal and polyclonal antibodies to detect defined substances in tissue preparations. Similarly, this applies also to other structures bound to special matrix to detect molecular binding properties. According to this scheme, qualitative and quantitative ligand assays with variable detection methods can be developed. Both direct and indirect forms of detection are possible.

Material and laboratory equipment for the preparation of antigens, antibodies and antibody-enzyme conjugates. Processing of tissue samples for microscopy.

Publications on microscopy, techniques in histology and relevant fields of work.

References for microscopy, histology and cell labeling studies

Cell science

KUHLMANN BIOMED Laboratory & Science