ICC

Immunocytochemistry (ICC) can be a very effective method for visualizing the localization and behavior of intracellular proteins, however the protocol for each ICC experiment should be optimized specifically to the cell being examined.  Permeabilization, or the puncturing of the cell membrane, is an extremely important step in detecting intracellular antigens with a primary antibody because it allows entry through the cell membrane. Permeabilization is introduced after cells have been prepared with a fixative agent to initiate protein cross-linking, such as formaldehyde or ethanol.

Immunocytochemistry (ICC) is a frequently used technique that allows researchers to determine if an antigen is expressed by specific cellular or sub-cellular compartments via the use of antibodies. Many research-grade antibodies are suitable for ICC analysis, however many are not or have not been tested.