What actually the DNA microchip technology is?
Currently, DNA microchips are referred by several different terms. Some have subtle difference of meaning, but the student can regard the terms, -DNA chip -DNA array -DNA microarray -Genome chip (as effectively the same). The first step in manufacturing of the microarray is the determination of the DNA samples used, by the purpose for which the chip is to be used for. These can range from short oligomers, to large PCR products, cDNA molecules or cloned inserts. Manufacture requires sophisticated robotic equipment that will permit up to one million spots each containing specific DNA molecules to be attaches in an area less than 1.5 cm2. Two different methods can be used to construct the array. 3.1)DNA molecules can be deposited onto specific sites in the array by a method similar to ink-jet printing. This is used for larger DNA molecules. 3.2)For short oligomers, photolithography, a technique borrowed from the semiconductor industry, is used to synthesize the DNA in situ. The hybridizat
