A DNA microarray consists of __________ .


a. a series of clones containing the entire genome of a microbe
b. recombinant microbial cells
c. restriction enzyme fragments of DNA molecules
d. single-stranded DNA localized on a substrate

Verified step by step guidance

1. Understand the concept of a DNA microarray: A DNA microarray is a tool used to detect the expression of thousands of genes at the same time.
2. Recognize that DNA microarrays involve the use of single-stranded DNA sequences that are fixed on a solid surface.
3. Consider the options provided: a) series of clones, b) recombinant cells, c) restriction enzyme fragments, d) single-stranded DNA.
4. Recall that the purpose of a DNA microarray is to hybridize with complementary DNA or RNA samples to measure gene expression levels.
5. Identify that the correct component of a DNA microarray is single-stranded DNA localized on a substrate, which matches option d.

Key Concepts

DNA Microarray Technology

A DNA microarray is a laboratory tool used to detect the expression of thousands of genes simultaneously. It consists of a solid surface, usually a glass slide, onto which thousands of single-stranded DNA probes are attached in a grid-like pattern. These probes can hybridize with complementary DNA or RNA samples, allowing researchers to analyze gene expression profiles across different conditions.

Single-Stranded DNA

Single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) refers to DNA that consists of only one strand, as opposed to the double-stranded structure commonly associated with DNA. In the context of microarrays, ssDNA probes are used to capture and bind to complementary sequences in the sample being analyzed. This specificity is crucial for accurately measuring gene expression levels.

Hybridization

Hybridization is the process by which two complementary strands of nucleic acids bind together to form a double-stranded molecule. In DNA microarrays, hybridization occurs when the ssDNA probes on the array bind to complementary sequences in the sample DNA or RNA. This interaction is fundamental for detecting and quantifying specific genes, as it indicates the presence and abundance of those sequences in the sample.