Description: An oligonucleotide array is a fundamental tool in bioinformatics that allows for the detection and analysis of specific nucleic acid sequences, such as DNA and RNA. This type of microarray consists of a solid surface, typically made of glass or plastic, onto which thousands of oligonucleotides are fixed, which are short fragments of DNA or RNA. Each oligonucleotide on the array is designed to hybridize with a specific complementary sequence, allowing for the identification of the presence and quantity of different nucleic acid sequences in a biological sample. The ability to analyze multiple sequences simultaneously makes oligonucleotide arrays a powerful tool for genetic research, molecular biology, and personalized medicine. Their use has expanded in areas such as genomics, where they are used to study gene expression, identify genetic variants, and detect pathogens. The technology behind these arrays has significantly evolved, allowing for greater resolution and sensitivity in sequence detection, facilitating advances in disease diagnosis and understanding complex biological processes.
History: Oligonucleotide arrays began to be developed in the 1990s, driven by the need to analyze multiple DNA sequences simultaneously. One significant milestone was the introduction of microarray technology by companies like Affymetrix, which launched its first commercial product in 1994. This advancement allowed researchers to study gene expression on a large scale, revolutionizing molecular biology and genomics. Over the years, the technology has evolved, improving detection accuracy and capacity, and has been integrated into various biomedical applications.
Uses: Oligonucleotide arrays are primarily used in genetic and medical research. Their applications include gene expression analysis, identification of genetic variants associated with diseases, pathogen detection in clinical samples, and study of interactions between proteins and nucleic acids. They are also valuable tools in pharmacogenomics, helping to personalize treatments based on patients’ genetic profiles.
Examples: A practical example of the use of oligonucleotide arrays is gene expression analysis in cancer, where gene expression profiles can be compared between tumor and healthy tissues. Another case is the detection of genetic variants in genome-wide association studies (GWAS), which seek correlations between genetic variants and phenotypic traits. Additionally, they are used in pathogen identification in viral infections, such as SARS-CoV-2, by detecting specific sequences of the virus in patient samples.
