Description
10X Zinc Fixative is a Tris-based buffer with zinc ions for fixation of tissue for immunohistochemical staining.Zinc fixation is an alternative to formalin fixation of tissue for paraffin embedded sections. 10% neutral buffered formalin fixes the tissue by cross-linking proteins, but may cause a conformational change or "masking" of the antigenic epitope leading to reduced or absent antibody reactivity.Different antigen retrieval techniques can be used to unmask the epitope, such as with BD Retrievagen A and B solutions.It is not possible, however, in some situations to retrieve the epitope and obtain optimal immunohistochemical staining.In these situations, the fixation of tissue with IHC Zinc Fixative is recommended, as it is a milder fixative compared to formalin.Zinc-fixed, paraffin embedded sections can provide for excellent immunostaining results for many different leukocyte markers with tissue morphology comparable to formalin-fixation.Use of antigen retrieval techniques on zinc-fixed paraffin sections may even further enhance antibody reactivity in some cases. Investigators should note that some antigens may not be preserved by zinc-fixation and in these situations, the use of fresh frozen tissue for immunohistochemical staining is recommended.
Suggested Companion Products
BD Retrievagen B (pH 9.5) RUO 250mLCat No: 550527
Retrievagen A (pH 6.0) RUO Cat No: 550524
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Preparation and Storage
Store undiluted at room temperature.
Product Notices
- Please refer to www.bdbiosciences.com/pharmingen/protocols for technical protocols.
10X Zinc Fixative must be diluted 1:10 in sterile water prior to use. For optimal immunohistochemical preservation of antigens, Zinc Fixative is recommended prior to processing and embedding into paraffin blocks. Fix tissues by placing freshly dissected tissue pieces (no larger than 3 mm in thickness) in Zinc Fixative and allowing to sit 24-48 hr at room temperature. Tissue can then be processed according to a normal processing schedule with the exception of 1X Zinc Fixative in station # 1 in place of 10% neutral buffered formalin. Tissue can then be embedded into a paraffin block for storage until microtome sectioning.
Danger: 10X Zinc Fixative (formalin free) contains 4.42% zinc chloride (w/w).
Hazard Statements
Causes skin irritation.
Causes serious eye damage.
Toxic to aquatic life with long lasting effects.
Precautionary Statements
Wear protective clothing / eye protection.
Wear protective gloves.
IF IN EYES:Rinse cautiously with water for several minutes.Remove contact lenses, if present and easy to do.Continue rinsing.
IF ON SKIN:Wash with plenty of water.
Dispose of contents/container in accordance with local/regional/national/international regulations.
