What is gene expression microarray?
A DNA microarray (also commonly known as DNA chip or biochip) is a collection of microscopic DNA spots attached to a solid surface. Scientists use DNA microarrays to measure the expression levels of large numbers of genes simultaneously or to genotype multiple regions of a genome.
What is the microarray process?
The microarray process is the translation of biological information into digital raw data. Once we have extracted the DNA from your sample, we need to make lots of copies of it so that we have enough substance for analysis. This process of copying your entire genome millions of times is called amplification.
What is the first step in a microarray?
The first step in using a microarray is to collect healthy and cancerous tissue samples from the patient. This way, doctors can look at what genes are turned on and off in the healthy cells compared to the cancerous cells. Once the tissues samples are obtained, the messenger RNA (mRNA) is isolated from the samples.
How is microarray testing done?
A blood sample is preferred for microarray analysis. Sometimes spit (saliva) or a tissue sample (like skin) may be used. This test compares the patient’s sample to a normal control sample to find very small missing or extra chromosome pieces that cannot be seen under a microscope.
How do you test for gene expression?
In addition to Northern blot tests and SAGE analyses, there are several other techniques for analyzing gene expression. Most of these techniques, including microarray analysis and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), work by measuring mRNA levels.
What are types of microarray?
There are four different types of DNA microarrays: cDNA microarrays, oligo DNA microarrays, BAC microarrays and SNP microarrays.
How long does the microarray process take?
This test compares the patient’s sample to a normal control sample to find very small missing or extra chromosome pieces that cannot be seen under a microscope. The test does not show structural changes in chromosomes. It can take up to 4 weeks to get the test results.
What are the major steps in preparing a microarray experiment?
There are three major steps involved in a typical experiment involving a microarray: preparation of microarrays; preparation of fluorescently labeled cDNA probes and hybridization; and finally scanning, image and data analysis.
What are the correct steps of conducting a DNA microarray analysis?
Conducting a microarray study is a multi-step process; starting with a well-defined biological question, moving through experimental design, target RNA preparation, microarray hybridisation, image acquisition and data analysis – finishing with a biological interpretation requiring further study.