Cancer biology through immunohistology
Immunohistology is the microscopic study of cells and tissues using specific antibodies that bind to individual molecules expressed by the cellular and non-cellular components of the tissues. This branch of science is an essential link in the analysis and interpretation of data from high throughput genomic and proteomic technologies. Its use, both in the research and in the clinical arenas, has led to an increased understanding of cancer biology. This knowledge has also resulted in improvements in diagnosis, the provision of prognostic and predictive information, and highlighted the use of appropriate treatments. Furthermore, immunohistochemistry is a critical component in the search for personalized treatments. The ongoing advances in the availability of specific validated antibodies, continued improvements in staining and image analysis, and the integration of different technologies will ensure that immunohistochemistry becomes an even more essential tool in the study of cancer biology.