HCR RNA-FISH: simple, scalable, superior in situ hybridization

In situ hybridization is an invaluable tool for life sciences research, allowing researchers to visualize anatomical distribution and localization of DNA and RNA targets. However, existing in situ hybridization methods are unable to perform robust analyses of gene expression, especially in thick, autofluorescent tissue samples. At Molecular Instruments (MI), our goal is to make in situ hybridization routine and accessible in any sample type, regardless of thickness or preparation. Our team designs and synthesizes kits for multiplexed, quantitative, high-resolution bioimaging for academic research, drug development, and clinical pathology/diagnostics.

Our technology, Hybridization Chain Reaction (HCR), is a next-generation signal amplification platform that enables 1-step multiplexed, isothermal, enzyme-free labeling of biomolecules.  HCR RNA fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) enables researchers to visualize expression of multiple RNA targets simultaneously in the anatomical context of intact tissues. We have also recently extended the benefits of HCR-based amplification to immunohistochemistry (IHC), allowing for accurate and precise protein quantitation with subcellular resolution.  

HCR RNA-FISH and HCR IHC products enable simultaneous labeling of up to 10 RNA and protein targets using a single, unified amplification platform. This results in a method that is simpler, more scalable, and superior to any alternative available today.

Looking to try HCR? Scan this QR code to register for access to a free HCR RNA-FISH Starter Kit:

 Each HCR RNA-FISH Starter Kit will come with everything you need to conduct a 3-plex HCR RNA-FISH experiment: 3 probe sets, 3 HCR amplifiers, and a set of buffers. Each kit contains carefully selected targets that have been validated either by our expert HCR users or by the MI team.

Key Features:

Straightforward Multiplexing

HCR enables 1-step parallel signal amplification of all targets simultaneously. Users can multiplex up to 10 targets! B6 – B10 amplifier channels are now available to order as custom amplifiers. If interested, please specify the amplifier channel you’d like in the comments field on the ordering interface.

No Custom Design Fees

We know that custom fees can deter researchers from purchasing key research tools – that’s why we don’t charge any custom design fees to make our technology accessible to scientists around the world! One of our core values at MI is supporting our users in pursuing fundamental and groundbreaking research, so we design custom probes for any target RNA at no additional cost.

Deep Sample Penetration

Existing in situ hybridization techniques either require extensive sample pretreatments to facilitate probe diffusion into thick tissue samples or cannot accommodate thick sample types at all. In contrast, HCR reagents are engineered to be small so that they can deeply penetrate into all sample types including thick tissue and whole-mount samples