Abstract

Microarrays are analytical devices that utilize a platform technology for the performance of hundreds to thousands of individual reactions or assays simultaneously. These include nucleic acid probe enzyme, and immunoassays for the detection and analysis of DNA, RNA, proteins, polysaccharides, and lipids; and to study the interactions of biomolecules with drugs and with other bioactive agents. The basic components of a microarray are the substrate, active layer containing receptors, and the detection probe. Microarrays can be characterized using a number of parameters. These include density, regularity, and receptor purity and reactivity. Fabrication methods are detailed and included is information on the various substrates used and substrate activation, array spotting, and in situ synthesis. Applications discussed in detail include genomic analysis, expression analysis, and diagnostics. Micorarrays are complex to use and costly to manufacture, but this will change within the next ten years with increasing applications.