Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a powerful tool for the discovery of diagnostic, predictive and prognostic biomarkers, enabling precision medicine approaches to get the right treatment to the right patient at the right time. IHC can validate disease targets, assess biodistribution, detect off-target binding, and inform clinical trial enrollment as well as determine treatment eligibility post-approval.

IHC uses ihc cro services that recognize specific proteins or cellular components within a tissue sample, then bind to those structures (like a lock and key). The antibodies are then linked to enzymes, such as horseradish peroxidase or alkaline phosphatase, which react when the target antigen is present and stain the tissue section a certain color under the microscope.

ELISA Test vs. Western Blot: Key Differences and Applications

Developing IHC services at MTRH required strategic investment, training and organization. Existing infrastructure included a histopathology laboratory with a tissue processor, convection oven, and microtome; an established relationship with a local company representative that provided service contracts and stocks reagents; and existing collaborations with academic pathologists.

A team of MTRH pathologists was trained in IHC, including four technologists. Visiting pathologists from Indiana University and Brown University visited the laboratory for two weeks twice a year to provide continuous training. IHC results are recorded and interpreted in coordination between the IHC laboratory director and pathologists. IHC results are catalogued and stored, paraffin blocks are cut into sections, and the resulting slides are digitized and archived. Across sites, there is nearly 92% concordance in IHC results for a global Phase 1 oncology study that used a custom IHC assay, reagent kit, and scoring index to evaluate P-cadherin, a cellular adhesion protein that contributes to oncogenesis.