(ICC) Immunocytochemistry Antibodies

Immunocytochemistry is a microscopic lab technique that uses antibodies to localize proteins in cell cultures. It is used to detect the presence of particular proteins in cell suspension, or cultured cells by the use of a specific immunocytochemistry antibody. These immunocytochemistry antibodies target antigens or specific peptides in the cell. These antibodies bind to the antigens and can then be detected using a variety of means. The ICC technique allows scientists to determine whether or not the specific protein or antigen is being expressed in the specific cell sample. In turn, this will show whether or not the immunocytochemistry antibody has an affinity to bind to that antigen in that specific cell sample. If they do, an immunopositive signal is seen. Immunocytochemistry is performed on intact cells that have their cell walls removed (either partially or wholly). The antibodies in question are tagged with a detectable molecule that is visible. The basic procedure involves fixing samples, incubating cells to block unspecific binding, counter staining, and then mounting with a medium.

Anti-cytokeratin antibody binds against the cytokeratin protein. Cytokeratin protein is involved in signal transduction of class 1 cytoskeleton intermediate filaments. The antibody can bind with numerous forms of cytokeratin including cytokeratin 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 13, and 18. Thus, the cytokeratin antibody is rather broad spectrum. These anti-cytokeratin antibodies are specific cell markers and can be used in tumor identification and cataloging. The target protein helps to regulate kinases. Defects in cytokeratin cause several disorders including palmoplantar keratoderma non-epidermolytic (NEPPK) and congenital ichthyosiform erythroderma (BCIE). NEPPK or diffuse orthohyperkeratotic keratoderma is a genetic disorder characterized by hornlike skin growths on the palms of the hands and soles of the feet. CIE is a rare form of ichthyosis that affects skin and gives it a thickened, scaly, and flaky appearance. The ZAP70 antibody binds against the ZAP70 protein and plays a role in lymphocyte activation and T-cell development. Defects in ZAP70 cause STD or selective T-cell defect which is part of a group of severe combined immunodeficiency syndromes related to ZAP70. Affected individuals inherit the disorder. Children with SCID basically have no immune function and lack protection against invaders like bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Untreated, survival times are no longer than 1-2 years. Mutations in ZAP70 allow for mistakes in the synthesis of zeta-chain-associated protein kinase.