A simple technique for immunoelectronmicroscopic localization of Ig on tissue sections with special reference to cutaneous pathology

Abstract

A simple technique using immunoperoxidase-labelled antibodies is reported for the ultrastructural localization of fixed immunoglobulins in tissue lesions. This technique allows the immunolabeling of frozen sections of 15 mu mounted on glass slides. These sections are then closed over for ultrastructural examination, using an Epon-filled gelatin capsule, and then returned to the glass slide. After polymerization, the capsule containing the tissue section is separated from the glass by immersion in liquid nitrogen. This technique is applied to the study of fixed Ig in the skin lesions of lupus erythematosus, pemphigus, bullous pemphigoid and dermatitis herpetiformis. The results obtained show a fine localization of fixed Ig, good tissue conservation and easy orientation of the biological material. It can be applied to the study of tissue antigens.