[Histonet] Confirming IHC staining as "real"

[Smith, Emily]

Hi All,
What techniques are generally used to confirm immunohistochemistry
staining as real?  If a tissue stains with a labeled primary antibody
what follow up assays and experiments are done to confirm the staining
is specific?  
For example, we have tried titering the primary antibody concentration
to see the staining intensity reduced.  We have tried to "compete" the
staining away with unlabeled antibody or with the peptide.
Has anyone tried these or similar approaches?  How were the results?
Thanks for your help.
~Emily
CuraGen Corporation