ABC Kits
Versatile Applications, Specific Results.Â
Reliable and Sensitive ABC Detection for IHC, IF, ELISA , and Blotting Applications
Achieve sensitivity and specificity for your immunoassays with our time-tested, versatile Avidin-Biotin Complex (ABC) detection systems.
Vector’s VECTASTAIN® Avidin-Biotin Complex Staining Kits (ABC Kits) exploit the high-affinity avidin-biotin interaction for reliable, highly sensitive detection of any biotinylated molecule.
This method leverages avidin’s ultra-high biotin affinity and its four biotin-binding sites allowing the formation of enzyme-rich ABC complexes for enhanced signal detection.
Once formed, the ABC reagent can be used for multiple days after preparation, maximizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
Vector’s ABC kits can be used to visualize biotinylated antibodies, lectins, neuronal tracers, nucleic acids, and ligands in applications such as: 
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC) and immunocytochemistry (ICC)
- Protein and nucleic acid blot detection
- In situ hybridization detection (ISH)
- Enzyme immunoassays (ELISAs)
- Neuronal tracing
Using the VECTASTAIN ABC System
The VECTASTAIN ABC system is a highly sensitive and widely used method for immunohistochemistry (IHC) and other immunodetection applications. This workflow outlines the step-by-step procedure for detecting target antigens using a biotin-avidin interaction to amplify signal intensity. The process involves sequentially applying a primary antibody, a biotinylated secondary antibody, and an avidin-biotinylated enzyme complex (ABC), followed by the addition of an enzyme substrate to produce a visible signal. Proper incubation and washing steps are essential to ensure specificity and minimize background staining. Follow this guide to achieve optimal staining results using the VECTASTAIN ABC system.
Step 1: Add Primary Antibody Apply the primary antibody to the specimen and incubate for the recommended duration to allow for antigen binding, then rinse with buffer to remove unbound antibody.
Step 2: Add Biotinylated Secondary Antibody Add the biotinylated secondary antibody that binds specifically to the primary antibody, incubate as directed, and wash thoroughly with buffer to remove excess reagent.
Step 3: Add Avidin/Biotinylated Enzyme Complex (ABC)Â Introduce the pre-formed avidin-biotinylated enzyme complex (ABC) solution, incubate for optimal binding, and perform buffer washes to eliminate any unbound complex.
Step 4: Add Enzyme Substrate Apply the appropriate enzyme substrate to visualize the reaction, allowing sufficient time for color development before stopping the reaction and rinsing the specimen.
Why Choose Our ABC Detection Systems? 
Vector’s ImmPACT® DAB provides superior sensitivity in side-by-side comparisons with competitor products. Greater signal intensity enables the visualization of low abundance targets and can often lead to a reduction in primary antibody concentrations, lowering the cost per test.
High Sensitivity with Low Background
The avidin-biotin complex ensures strong signal amplification while minimizing non-specific binding for precise target detection.
Broad Compatibility and Versatility
Detect any biotinylated molecule, including primary and secondary antibodies, lectins, neuronal tracers, nucleic acids, and ligands.
Modular and Flexible Design
Configure your detection system for compatibility with a wide range of primary antibodies and target species with flexibility in enzyme choice.
Utility Across Multiple Applications
Visualize a variety of biotinylated molecular probes in IHC, ICC, ELISA, blotting, and more.
Convenient and Economical
Use the avidin-biotin enzyme complexes for several days after preparation for improved workflow efficiency.
Which ABC Detection System Should I Choose? 
Vector’s ABC Detection Systems are available with either horseradish peroxidase (HRP) or alkaline phosphatase (AP) enzymes providing flexibility based on experimental needs. The HRP Kits produce sharp, dense precipitates with crisp localization and are a preferred choice for many applications. The Elite HRP version provides higher sensitivity than the standard HRP kit, making it the best choice for detecting low-abundance targets. The AP kits are ideal when working with tissues with high endogenous peroxidase activity or when additional chromogenic substrate colors are desired. Both systems are available without (standard kit) or with biotinylated secondary antibodies. All options deliver low background and reliable performance across a variety of applications.
| Format | Vectastain Elite ABC-HRP Kits | Vectastain Standard ABC-HRP Kits | Vectastain ABC-AP Kits |
|---|---|---|---|
| ABC complex only | PK-6100 | PK-4000 | AK-5000 |
| ABC complex only, ready-to-use format | PK-7100 | — | — |
| Kits Target Species | Vectastain Elite ABC-HRP Kits | Vectastain Standard ABC-HRP Kits | Vectastain ABC-AP Kits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rabbit IgG | PK-6101 | PK-4001 | AK-5001 |
| Mouse IgG | PK-6102 | PK-4002 | AK-5002 |
| Rabbit IgG and Mouse IgG | PK-6200 | — | AK-5200 |
| bit IgG and Mouse IgG, ready-to-use format | PK-7200 | — | — |
| Rabbit IgG and Mouse IgG, PLUS format | PK-8200 | — | — |
| Human IgG | PK-6103 | — | — |
| Rat IgG | PK-6104 | PK-4004 | — |
| Goat IgG | PK-6105 | PK-4005 | — |
| Guinea Pig | — | PK-4007 | — |
| M.O.M. (Mouse on Mouse) Kit | PK-2200 | — | — |
Precision, Quality, and Support You Can Trust 
As a leader in immunodetection, Vector Laboratories empowers researchers with advanced multiplex IHC solutions. Our commitment to quality, innovation, and support positions us as the partner of choice for scientists seeking to unravel the complexities of tissue biology.
Explore our comprehensive suite of products and discover how we can enhance your multiplex IHC and IF workflows.
Scalable Manufacturing
Ensures batch-to-batch consistency for reliable reagent performance.
Robust QC Testing
Each batch undergoes rigorous quality control for reproducible results.
Proven Stability
Long shelf life and stable performance reduce experimental variability.
Industry Benchmarked
Recognized as a gold standard in IHC workflows, offering superior results.
ISO 9001-Certified
Demonstrates our commitment to high-quality standards and customer satisfaction.
Expert Technical Support
Our knowledgeable team provides assay optimization, troubleshooting, and guidance at every step.
Cited in High-Impact Journals
Widely referenced in scientific literature, reinforcing credibility and reliability.
Enzyme Substrate Technical and Educational Resources
To learn more about chromogenic enzyme substrates for immunodetection applications, explore the following resources.
VECTASTAIN® ABC Kits for Immunodetection Guide
This article provides more details on the ABC system in immunodetection applications, like how to choose and use the optimal kit for your workflow.
IHC Troubleshooting Guide for ABC Systems
This quick reference guide outlines the systematic controls to help identify background sources and address weak/no staining in IHC protocols using ABC systems.
