Fast and Reliable RNA in Situ Hybridisation Protocol for the Detection of Hepatitis C Virus in Formalin-Fixed Paraffin Embedded Tissue

Aims: The diagnostic use of Hepatitis C virus (HCV) RNA in situ hybridisation (RISH) in formalin fixed and paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue is hampered by time consuming protocols. Aims: To establish a fast and reliable protocol for the detection of HCV in FFPE tissue for routine diagnostic purposes. Methods: Thirty FFPE specimens of cirrhotic liver tissue (12 HCV-positive, 18 HCV-negative) were submitted to a one day RISH protocol using a 16 bp-FITC-labelled Peptic Nucleic Acid (PNA) probe directed to the UTR of HCV. Detection was performed using a commercial PNA ISH Detection Kit. Specificity of RISH was assess…