Real-time DNA microarrays: reality check.
DNA microarrays are plagued with inconsistent quantifications and false-positive results. Using established mechanisms of surface reactions, we argue that these problems are inherent to the current technology. In particular, the problem of multiplex non-equilibrium reactions cannot be resolved within the framework of the existing paradigm. We discuss the advantages and limitations of changing the paradigm to real-time data acquisition similar to real-time PCR methodology. Our analysis suggests that the fundamental problem of multiplex reactions is not resolved by the real-time approach itself. However, by introducing new detection chemistries and analysis approaches, it is possible to extract target-specific quantitative information from real-time microarray data. The possible scope of applications for real-time microarrays is discussed.
Chagovetz
Alexander
A
Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84112, USA. alexa488@comcast.net
Blair
Steve
S
D000465:Algorithms; D003198:Computer Simulation; D004247:DNA / Q000235:genetics; D023281:Genomics; D020411:Oligonucleotide Array Sequence Analysis / Q000295:instrumentation / Q000379:methods
D004247:DNA