The process typically involves several steps: 1. Sample Preparation: Tissue or cell samples are prepared and fixed to preserve their structure. 2. Blocking: Non-specific binding sites are blocked to prevent background staining. 3. Primary Antibody Incubation: The primary antibody, which specifically binds to the target protein, is added to the sample. 4. Washing: Excess primary antibody is washed away to reduce non-specific binding. 5. Secondary Antibody Incubation: A secondary antibody, which binds to the primary antibody and is often conjugated with a detectable marker (e.g., fluorescence or enzyme), is applied. 6. Detection: The marker is visualized, indicating the presence and location of the target protein.
