UCL Cancer Institute

Microarray

The Affymetrix GeneChip® Technology provides an integrated solution for your Expression Profiling and DNA Analysis needs. Advanced bioinformatics algorithms are used to select probes from genomic sequences reported in GenBank®, dbEST, and RefSeq and the oligonucleotides are then synthesised directly onto each array using a unique photolithographic methodology.

Widely recognised as the gold standard in gene expression technology, the unsurpassed data accuracy of Affymetrix arrays is a direct result of multiple 25-mer probes representing individual genes for a sensitive and specific evaluation of Gene Expression levels. Although many of our users have taken advantage of this robust technology for sensitive Gene Expression studies, all other applications are just as robust.

Our microarray facility consists of a complete Affymetrix GeneChip® Instrument System including the GeneChip® Scanner 3700 7G (with latest upgrades and autoloader) and two fluidics stations allowing for up to 24 sample capacity per day.

The range of applications include Whole-Transcript Expression Analysis & Profiling, 3' IVT Expression, miRNA Analysis, SNP/CNV Analysis, Molecular Cytogenetics, Resequencing, and Targeted Genotyping Analysis.

Service Options:

We pride ourselves on our competitive prices and fast processing times, and are able to provide a comprehensive service to assist you in running your Affymetrix microarray experiments. Although we can perform a basic hybridisation service across the entire Affymetrix platform, currently we are only able to provide a full service for Gene Expression Analysis only.

We offer two levels of service:

Full service: From Total RNA to Data. A fully quality controlled array service.

Provide us with 20ng – 700ng of good quality total RNA. We recommend using QIAGEN RNeasy mini kit for RNA extraction. Please make sure that RNA is free of contaminants and has been DNAse digested prior to submission.

Service includes:

• Initial consultation, including expert advice on experimental design
  
• Quantification and QC analysis of the total RNA
  
• Preparation of labelled, fragmented cRNA/cDNA according to Affymetrix protocol following all recommended QC steps
  
• Hybridisation, probing and scanning of the sample onto the arrays
  
• Provision of quality controlled array data with RMA QC report

Basic Service: Hybridisation, probing and scanning only

Provide us with the fragmented, biotinylated cRNA/cDNA.

Service includes:

• Initial consultation, including expert advice on experimental design
  
• Hybridisation, probing and scanning of the arrays
  
• Provision of quality controlled array data with RMA QC report

Prices:

Extras

• Basic analysis with Partek to create gene lists describing differential gene expression between groups (£55 per sample)

*Please contact us in regards to prices for processing of any array types not already listed*

Sample Submission:

When submitting your samples, please ensure you provide the following:

• Sample (Total RNA or labelled cRNA/cDNA)
  
• Completed submission form including IDT or purchase order (electronic copies only)
  
  For further information and pricing or to arrange a meeting, please contact us.