MICA-a highly sensitive and avidin-free immunohistochemical detection system.

MICA is an acronym for mirror image complementary antibodies. The MICA system is a novel, avidin-free immunohistochemical detection system that provides a significant increase in sensitivity compared to traditional immunodetection systems. The principle of the system is the alternate and sequential application of mutually attractive polyclonal antibodies to form a large complex of antibodies which can cross-link tissue-bound primary antibodies. Peroxidase conjugated to the constituent antibodies permits signal generation. The formed peroxidase-containing complex is very stable and, by cross-linking tissue-bound primary antibodies, possesses high avidity for the target antigens, thereby producing high immunohistochemical sensitivity.