What is gene expression profiling?
We all start life as a single cell with chromosomes and their accompanying genes. Our original cell grows and divides, eventually leading to many cell types with specific functions. With only a few exceptions, every cell of the body contains a full set of chromosomes with their accompanying identical genes, but only a small fraction of these genes are active in any particular type of cell. A brain cell and a breast cell have very different jobs to perform in the body. “Gene expression” is the term used to describe the transcribing of the information contained within the DNA, the repository of genetic information, into messenger molecules. These molecules are then translated into the proteins that perform most of the critical functions of cells. The “expression” of these specific genes is what creates a cell’s unique capabilities. If you were to record someone debating, you’d be very aware of the volume variation in her speech. Gene expression profiling would be like that recording. You
