FSH

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is a hormone synthesized and secreted by gonadotropes in the anterior pituitary gland. In the ovary, FSH stimulates the growth of immature Graafian follicles to maturation. As the follicle grows, it releases inhibin, which deactivates the FSH production. In men, FSH enhances the production of androgen-binding protein by the Sertoli cells of the testis and is critical for spermatogenesis. FSH and LH act synergistically in reproduction.

FSH is a useful marker in the classification of pituitary tumors and the study of pituitary disease. It reacts with FSH-producing cells.

FSH is a purified immunoglobulin fraction of rabbit antiserum that is filter sterilized and diluted in buffer pH 7.5, containing BSA and sodium azide as a preservative.

1. La Rosa S, et al. Virchows Arch. 2000;Sep;437(3)264-269
2. Zheng W, et al. Gynecol Oncol. 2000;Jan;76(1)80-88
3. Ben-Josef, et al. J Urol. 1999;Mar;161(3):970-976

1. Cut and mount 3-4 micron formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded tissues on positive charged slides.
2. Air dry for 2 hours at 58° C.
3. Deparaffinize, dehydrate and rehydrate tissues.
4. Subject tissues to heat epitope retrieval using a suitable retrieval solution such as ImmunoDNA Retriever with Citrate (BSB 0020-BSB 0023) or EDTA (BSB 0030-BSB 0033).
5. Any of three heating methods may be used:
   • Electric Pressure Cooker
     Place standoff rack at base of pressure cooker. Add 1-2 inches of distilled water to the pressure cooker and turn heat to high, and incubate for 15 minutes. Open and immediately transfer slides to room temperature.
   • Water Bath Method
     Place tissues/slides in a pre-warmed staining dish or coplin jar containing the ImmunoDNA Retriever with Citrate or EDTA in a water bath set at 95°-99° C. Incubate for 30-60 minutes.
   • Conventional Steamer Method
     Place tissues/slides in a pre-warmed staining dish or coplin jar containing the ImmunoDNA Retriever with Citrate or EDTA in a Steamer, cover and steam for 30-60 minutes.
6. After heat treatment, transfer slides in ImmunoDNA Retriever with Citrate or EDTA to room temperature and let stand for 15-20 minutes.
7. Wash slides with IHC wash buffer or DI water.
8. Continue IHC staining protocol.