Advanced laboratory techniques for sample processing and immunolabeling using microwave radiation

A better understanding of improved microwave technology has increased the benefits and versatility of the technique as it applies to all aspects of immunohistochemistry. The role of continuous magnetron power output (wattage) combined with precise control of sample heating demonstrated their significance to complex labeling protocols. Here, we present results for microwave-assisted formaldehyde fixation and its effect on GFP expression in transfected HeLa cells. Rat brain sections and cultured hippocampal cells were labeled with 11 different primary antibodies using a unified microwave protocol. Microwave-assisted immunohistochemistry made it possible to sequentially label tissues and cells with several primary antibodies in a very short period of time with excellent labeling characteristics.