1) It is not that IHC will "work" better on thinner sections. Thinner
sections will show better detail, which can be especially important for
virus location.

2) We use formalin but zinc formalin may work well. It may reduce the need
for antigen retrieval methods.

3) We use proteinase K for antigen retrieval for most of our work but
occasionally use heat antigen retrieval methods using a steamer.


Tim Morken, BA, EMT(MSA), HTL(ASCP)
Infectious Disease Pathology Activity
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Ms-G32
1600 Clifton Road
Atlanta, GA 30333
USA

PH: 404-639-3964
FAX: 404-639-3043

email: tim9@cdc.gov



-----Original Message-----
From: Dr. Willie H. Bingham [mailto:wbingham@mvdl.state.ms.us]
Sent: Monday, June 18, 2001 7:18 AM
To: HistoNet Server
Subject: Herpesvirus IHC


1. I am trying to do some work on deciphering the pathogenesis of catfish
herpesvirus. I am used to reading H&E tissue sections of 5 microns in width.
I have heard through the grapevine that for immunostaining, 3 or 4 micron
thick sections work better for IHC than the 5 micron sections. Is this true?


2. Is zinc formalin a better fixative than formalin or bouins for virus IHC?
I've heard that zinc formalin causes less cross linking.



3. Of the antigen release methods (steaming, microwaving and enzyme
digestion), which one is best for viral IHC?


Thanks in advance,

WB