In-situ hybridization

In situ hybridization (ISH) is a molecular biology technique for detecting and visualizing specific nucleic acid sequences within cells, preserved tissue sections, or whole tissues. This method employs labeled complementary DNA or RNA probes to bind to target sequences, allowing for the precise localization of genes or transcripts within their native cellular context.

The ISH process involves several critical steps. Initially, tissue samples are fixed and permeabilized to maintain cellular integrity and permit probe access. Labeled probes complementary to the target nucleic acid sequences are then hybridized to the sample. These probes can be tagged with fluorescent dyes, radioactive isotopes, or enzymes that produce a colorimetric reaction. After hybridization, any unbound probes are washed away, and the bound probes are detected using imaging techniques such as fluorescence microscopy or autoradiography.

ISH has a wide range of applications in biological research and clinical diagnostics. For example, it is extensively used to study gene expression patterns during development. Visualizing where specific genes are active can provide valuable insights into their roles in numerous developmental processes. ISH has also been key in identifying the spatial distribution of viral infections within tissues, which is crucial for understanding the pathogenesis of viral diseases.

Read our clear, comprehensive ISH protocol, written by our experts and collaborators to take you step-by-step to reliable results.