Miniaturized platform for DNA microarray analysis

Abstract

DNA microarrays are widely used in R&D labs. Novel methods of improving the DNA microarray hybridization process, required for diagnostics and routine testing, were studied in this project. Experiments of Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) genotyping DNA microarray, genomic DNA microarray hybridization and microbeads-based hybridization were performed. Comparison experiments between the standard hybridization method and ultrasound or microwave hybridization method were designed. Results showed that ultrasound had no effect on the Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) genotyping DNA microarray hybridization time and speed. For microbeads based hybridization, ultrasound (increased the signal intensity) but had no effect on its time. For genomic DNA microarray hybridization, ultrasound could shorten hybridization time from overnight (16 hours) to 4 hours. Microwave could increase the signal intensity of microbeads based hybridization.