Custom optimization starts with an 8-slide panel by first determining the potential base dilution from the manufacturers data specification sheet for primary antibody.  Slides are then stained in pairs utilizing 4 separate pretreatment options:  4 slides receive primary antibody and 4 slides receive negative control reagent.  The four pretreatment methods are no pretreatment, proteolytic enzyme retrieval, and high heat retrieval in a vegetable steamer or micro-processor controlled pressure cooker at pH 6.0 and pH 9.0.  Once the 8-slide optimization panel is completed and reviewed additional primary antibody adjustments can be made based on the initial outcome from one of the four pretreatment methods for titration and incubation time.  Upon optimization the protocol will be approved by the primary investigator or client and utilized for all samples submitted to the laboratory.  All slides in this process are charged for optimization including negative controls. 

Tissues receive automated processing, manual embedding, sectioning, automated immunohistochemical staining, coverslipping, labeling, technical quality control, and packaging. These tests are completed with the individual primary antibody for the test being provided by the researcher. These techniques may require multiple methods of pre-treatment prior to immunostaining. May also be performed on frozen tissue.

Tissues receive automated processing, manual embedding, sectioning, automated immunohistochemical staining, coverslipping, labeling, technical quality control, and packaging. These tests are completed with the individual primary antibody for the test NOT being provided by the researcher. These techniques may require multiple methods of pre-treatment prior to immunostaining. May also be performed on frozen tissue.