This web page was produced as an assignment for Genetics 564, an undergraduate course at UW-Madison
Microarray
What is a DNA microarray?
A DNA microarray is a profile used to assess the expression of genes in a cell. This technique can be used to compare gene expression of cells in different cell states. In a few steps, thousands of gene expressions can be profiled at once [1]:
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Use a microarray to differentiate between gene expression in healthy and cancerous cells with this interactive video!
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Discussion
Information on NBN gene expression, pertaining to Nijmegen breakage syndrome, was not found using the GEO Profiles database. This database contains international microarray data for a variety of genes. Patients with NBS possess truncated, malfunctioning NBN proteins, resulting from issues in translation of NBN. The gene, though mutated, is expressed and transcribed normally. This may explain why a NBN microarray profile, pertaining directly to NBS, could not be found.
Performing quantitative mass spectrometry, a technique used to measure protein expression, may be a better approach to study NBS. NBN protein expression is a vital for organismal viability. Additionally levels of expression have been strongly correlated with symptom severity, further suggesting that research surrounding protein expression is vital to understanding Nijmegen breakage syndrome. |
References:
Figure 1. http://csmbio.csm.jmu.edu/bioweb/Bio480/08Fallmicroarray/group4/microarray%20intro.jpg [1] DNA Microarray. (n.d.). Retrieved March 26, 2015, from http://learn.genetics.utah.edu/content/labs/microarray/ |