Immnohistochemistry FAQs

What are the advantages of the IHC Accessory Kit?

Everything you need for immunostaining is included in the kit. The reagents are easy to prepare and use. The IHC Accessory kit processing times are shorter than the commonly used avidin-biotin systems. This kit does not utilize biotin in the system.

What is the cost per slide using the IHC Accessory Kit?

The kit will stain 250 slides at a cost of $1.26 per slide. The cost of the primary antibody is not included.

What is the cost per slide when using Bethyl IHC Antibodies?

Bethyl IHC antibodies average $2.50 per slide.

How does Bethyl qualify IHC Antibodies for FFPE?

All IHC Antibodies are tested on tissue microarrays using the IHC Accessory Kit.

Can I use the IHC Accessory Kit for phospho-specific antibodies?

Yes, the IHC Accessory Kit is suitable for phospho-specific antibodies.

Can I use Bethyl IHC antibodies for IF?

Yes, just substitute the anti-Rabbit IHC antibody with Bethyl’s product A120-101F or A120-201F for the secondary detection. See procedure listed on this web site.

Are there advantages to using Immunoperoxidase (DAB) over Immunofluorescence (IF) for IHC?

Yes, with immunoperoxidase (DAB) methods you have a permanent slide representing your data. The surrounding tissue is visible to further enhance your data. Also, autofluorescence can confound your data.

When is it best to use IF?

IF is appropriate for Immunocytochemisty (ICC).

What positive control tissue should I use?

Refer to the individual IHC Antibody data sheet. All IHC Antibody data sheets have images demonstrating positive staining.

How long should FFPE tissues be fixed to be suitable for immunohistochemisty?

Formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues should be fixed in formaldehyde no longer than 24 hours. Tissues should not be thicker than 3mm to allow fixative penetration.