METHOD AND COMPOSITION FOR PRESERVING ANTIGENS AND NUCLEIC ACIDS AND PROCESS FOR UTILIZING CYTOLOGICAL MATERIAL PRODUCED BY SAME

摘要

A method and composition for fixing and stabilizing tissues, cells, and cell components such that the antigenic sites and nucleic acids are preserved is provided. The fixative employs a formaldehyde donor that is non-toxic, non-flammable, and that stabilizes the cell with minimal damage to and alteration of the cell morphology. The cell antigenic sites are left intact so that studies with monoclonal antibodies may be conducted. Vaccines and related immunotherapeutic methods utilizing antigens stabilized by the fixative of the present invention are also provided. Also disclosed is a method for developing a positive control for test reagents and for test instrumentation.