Take AIM

Melanoma cells stained with AIM melanoma (HMB45) strips

Losing sight of the "big picture" concerns many researchers embroiled in running gels and performing assays. Visualizing a protein of interest in intact tissue sections can reconnect studies to the physiological realm and complement other types of data. However, immunohistochemical antigen-detection techniques can be daunting for the uninitiated. In October 1999, The Binding Site of San Diego, released the AIM (Antibody Impregnated Membrane) Immunostaining System, designed for researchers desiring reproducible immunohistological data but not trained or equipped to develop the procedure. This unique system uses specialized paper tabs coated with the reagents required for each step of antigen detection in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue sections.

Dick Rowland, vice president of The Binding Site, notes, "Immunohistology is so complicated, involving optimization of antigen retrieval, primary and secondary antibody dilutions, and the development process. To get one antibody to work can be a long,...