Retrieval of p53 protein in paraffin-embedded head and neck tumor tissues.
OBJECTIVE
To improve the detection of p53 protein in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded head and neck tumor tissues.


METHODS
Cohort.


METHODS
University and Veterans Administration medical centers.


METHODS
Retrospective samples.


METHODS
Surgery for head and neck carcinoma.


METHODS
Retrieval of p53 antigen. Hypothesis formulated after data collection.


RESULTS
An antigen retrieval method facilitated the unmasking of previously inaccessible p53 antigenic determinants in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues. This approach has made possible a much more reliable and sensitive immunohistochemical detection of p53 antigen. The procedure is simple, requiring only microwave heating of tissue sections to 100 degrees C in the presence of a zinc sulfate solution.


CONCLUSIONS
Antigen retrieval method in formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissue demonstrated a significant increase in p53 immunostaining.
Pavelic
Z P
ZP
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Ohio.
Portugal
L G
LG
Gootee
M J
MJ
Stambrook
P J
PJ
Smith
C
C
Mugge
R E
RE
Pavelic
L
L
Wilson
K
K
Buncher
C R
CR
Li
Y Q
YQ
D016158:Genes, p53; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D006358:Hot Temperature; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D018307:Neoplasms, Squamous Cell / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism*; D010232:Paraffin; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013194:Staining and Labeling / Q000379:methods; D016159:Tumor Suppressor Protein p53 / Q000378:metabolism*
D016159:Tumor Suppressor Protein p53; D010232:Paraffin