DNA microarrays

Overview of DNA microarrays in medical research

DNA Microarray

DNA microarray used in genetic research

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DNA microarrays are a powerful technology used in genomics and molecular biology to measure the expression levels of large numbers of genes simultaneously or to genotype multiple regions of a genome.

Overview

DNA microarrays consist of a collection of microscopic DNA spots attached to a solid surface. Researchers use these arrays to hybridize a sample of cDNA or RNA to the DNA on the array, allowing them to measure the expression levels of thousands of genes at once.

Applications

DNA microarrays have a wide range of applications in biomedical research and clinical diagnostics. Some of the key applications include:

• **Gene expression profiling**: This is used to study the expression levels of genes in different cell types or under different conditions, such as in cancer research to identify oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes.
• **SNP detection**: Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) can be detected using microarrays, which is useful in genetic association studies and personalized medicine.
• **Genotyping**: Microarrays can be used to determine the genotype of an individual for a large number of genetic loci.

Technology

The technology behind DNA microarrays involves the following steps:

1. **Array fabrication**: DNA sequences are synthesized directly on the array surface or spotted onto the array using robotic systems. 2. **Sample preparation**: RNA is extracted from the sample, converted to cDNA, and labeled with fluorescent dyes. 3. **Hybridization**: The labeled cDNA is hybridized to the DNA on the array. 4. **Detection and analysis**: The array is scanned to detect the fluorescent signals, which are analyzed to determine gene expression levels.

Advantages and Limitations

DNA microarrays offer several advantages, including the ability to analyze thousands of genes simultaneously and the potential for high-throughput screening. However, they also have limitations, such as the need for prior knowledge of the sequences to be analyzed and potential cross-hybridization issues.

See also

• Genomics
• Bioinformatics
• Next-generation sequencing
• Proteomics

External links

• Example article on DNA microarrays
• National Human Genome Research Institute: DNA Microarray