RT-PCR-Based Approaches to Generate Probes for mRNA Detection by In Situ Hybridization

The ability to detect mRNA in tissue sections provides a powerful tool for localizing gene expression in complex tissues comprising mixed cell populations. Detection of gene expression at the mRNA level is particularly important to confirm the identity of cells expressing soluble or secreted proteins. Such proteins may be immunohistochemically detected in association with cells other than those expressing them, and can yield a diffuse pattern of staining. The specific mRNA, however, will only be detected in cells that actually express the protein.