Immunohistochemistry as an important tool for exploring the insights of various aspects of gastro-intestinal tract

Abstract

The concepts in immunology and techniques in histology have come together in a novel way to create a pioneering discipline known as ImmunoHistoChemistry (IHC), to discover new ways in detecting cell and tissue antigens related to amino acids, proteins and infectious agents by using labeled antibodies. These amalgamation techniques are applied in the disciplines of endocrinology, entero-biology, neurobiology, pathology, tumor biology and pharmaceutical research as a diagnostic tool. The simultaneous advancements in the field of imaging techniques further assisted and widened the application of IHC in molecular studies, thereby facilitating the development of novel therapeutic strategies. This paper attempts to discuss the different aspects of gastrointestinal tract in relation to its cellular diversity, cellular differentiation, physiology and pathology, through the application of IHC methods.