Microarrays are a fast and economical method to analyze the expression of tens of thousands of genes at once. The differences in gene expression in different conditions can identify the genes involved in or affected by the biological event under investigation. Some examples studied include: normal vs. disease states; different developmental states; and exposure to chemicals. Rapidly assessing gene function through expression-based arrays is quickly advancing our knowledge of gene function.
The microarray centre produces custom microarrays for Genome BC and other Genome Canada large scale projects as well as provincial, national, and international collaborators. These researchers can collect expression data tailored to their specific interests on thousands of genes simultaneously.
The microarray centre is a joint operation
of the Genome BC Microarray Platform and the
Microarray Facility at the Prostate Centre,
VGH, and is one of the nation's leaders in
high-throughput custom microarray production
and analysis, with major funding provided
by Genome Canada. The centre provides a complete
integrated solution as a comprehensive multi-laboratory,
multi-user facility with all the elements
for large-scale development, production, and
analysis of both oligonucleotide and cDNA
microarrays. In addition to standard gene
expression arrays, the microarray centre also
works on emerging technologies such as protein-based
arrays and genotyping arrays. |
