MICA - A highly sensitive and avidin-free immunohistochemical detection system

MICA is an acronym for mirror image complementary antibodies. The MICA syst em is a novel, avidin-free immunohistochemical detection system that provid es a significant increase in sensitivity compared to traditional immunodete ction systems. The principle of the system is the alternate and sequential application of mutually attractive polyclonal antibodies to form a large co mplex of antibodies which can cross-link tissue-bound primary antibodies. P eroxidase conjugated to the constituent antibodies permits signal generatio n. The formed peroxidase-containing complex is very stable and, by cross-li nking tissue-bound primary antibodies, possesses high avidity for the targe t antigens, thereby producing high immunohistochemical sensitivity.