Editing BioMicroCenter:MicroArrayTemp (section)

== Technology Updates ==

=== Labeling Kits ===
[[Image:BMC_NugenKit.png|right]]
Affymetrix is retiring their old 3' Array kits in September 2009. In response, BMC has been evaluating new technologies. The newer kits are faster and require less starting material. We have selected the NuGEN technology as the primary labeling method we will be using going forward for eukaryotic arrays becuase of their ease and the modularity of their system that allows us to combine the processing of Affymetrix 3', Affymetrix Exon, and Agilent arrays. Information on the evaluation can be found '''[[BioMicroCenter:3primeIVT|HERE]].'''. We DO NOT RECOMMEND mixing labeling types withing an experiment as we observed large differences between the absolute intensitites of signals between labeling methods. Arrays can still be hybridized using the Affymetrix 3'IVT, Affymetrix Exon and old Affymetrix 3' array by request (please ask for pricing). 

We have also switched our prokaryotic labeling system from the Affymetrix system to one developed by [http://www.ambion.com/catalog/ProdGrp.html?fkProdGrp=339 Ambion]. The Ambion sytem requires significantly less input RNA and has a more streamlined protocol. The Affymetrix labeling system is still available by request.

=== Small Cell Numbers ===

NuGEN has recently developed kits that allow the analysis of very [http://www.nugeninc.com/nugen/index.cfm/products/amplification-systems/wt-ovation-pico/ small amounts of pruified RNA (100pg)] or even [http://www.nugeninc.com/nugen/index.cfm/products/amplification-systems/wt-ovation-one-direct/ single cells]. Please contact [[BioMicroCenter:People|Stuart Levine]] if you are interested in trying out these technologies.