Immunohistochemistry (IHC)

Immunohistochemistry (IHC) designates a laboratory technique detecting specific proteins in tissue sections using antibodies, enabling visual localisation of targets within preserved tissue architecture. This method combines antigen-antibody binding with signal detection systems producing colourimetric or fluorescent staining, allowing researchers and clinicians to identify protein expression patterns across cells and tissue compartments.

The biopharmaceutical industry relies on IHC extensively for translational research, clinical trial design, and companion diagnostic development. Oncology programmes use IHC to assess tumour marker expression such as PD-L1, HER2, or hormone receptors, supporting targeted therapy selection and predicting response likelihood. Preclinical studies use IHC to confirm target presence in disease tissues and validate mechanism of action. Clinical development incorporates IHC as a pharmacodynamic tool measuring treatment-induced modulation of biomarkers in biopsy samples. Regulatory submissions may include IHC data supporting biomarker strategies, patient enrichment approaches, or diagnostic claims.