ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the interest of immunolocalization using the light and electron microscope with the following objectives: to design the best methodological strategy for optimal morphological evidence of the matrix components and to open perspectives on the mediation or interactive functions of connective matrix which is revealing its leading part in cell-cell dialogue and cell population interaction. For immunolocalization of collagens, fixation appears as the critical step during the procedure. Two combined objectives are wanted: retain the antigen in situ and preserve the tissue structure. Before starting an electron microscopy (EM) study of immunolabeling, it is strongly recommended that the compatibility of the antigen and the specific antibody under investigation be screened using light-microscopic immunohistochemistry. EM immunolabeling allows identification of collagen isotypes in their tissular polymeric form. The classic mechanical properties of the major collagenmade organs have been explained and reexamined using recent data on the properties of the macromolecular complex edifice which associate collagen, glycoproteins, and proteoglycans.
