Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis is a technique used in molecular biology and genomics to simultaneously analyze the presence and abundance of multiple specific nucleotide sequences in a given sample.
An oligonucleotide is a short, single-stranded DNA or RNA molecule composed of a specific sequence of nucleotides. Oligonucleotide arrays, also known as DNA microarrays or gene chips, are solid surfaces where thousands to millions of unique oligonucleotides are immobilized at specific locations. Each oligonucleotide represents a specific gene or DNA sequence of interest.
In Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis, the first step involves the extraction and labeling of target nucleic acids from the biological sample. These labeled nucleic acids are then hybridized to the oligonucleotide array. The nature of the hybridization reaction between the target nucleic acids and the complementary oligonucleotides on the array allows for the identification and quantification of specific nucleotide sequences in the sample.
After the hybridization step, the array is scanned, and the fluorescence signals are captured and analyzed. The intensity of the signals correlates with the abundance of the target sequences in the original sample. By comparing the signal intensities across different samples or conditions, researchers can determine gene expression levels, sequence variations, gene mutations, or identify the presence of pathogens in a sample.
Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis offers a high-throughput method for studying gene expression, genotyping, and molecular diagnostics. It has revolutionized the field of genomics by enabling the simultaneous analysis of thousands to millions of genetic markers in a single experiment.
