Microarray Technology

Microarray technology is a new method of studying the expression of multiple genes at the same time. Thousands of gene sequences are placed in known positions on a glass slide called a gene chip. The gene chip is in contact with a sample containing DNA or RNA. The light is measured as a result of complementary base pairing between the sample and the gene sequences on the chip. Genes expressed in the sample are identified by light-producing areas on the chip. Microarray is a powerful new tool for researching the molecular basis of interactions at a scale that is impossible to achieve with traditional methods. This method allows researchers to look at the expression of thousands of genes at the same time. This technology has the potential to improve the development of rational therapeutic and disease diagnosis approaches.