Microarrays operate on the principle of nucleic acid hybridization. The process involves several steps: 1. Sample Preparation: RNA is extracted from the biological sample and converted into labeled cDNA. 2. Hybridization: The labeled cDNA is then applied to the microarray slide, where it hybridizes with the complementary DNA probes. 3. Washing: Excess cDNA is washed away, leaving only the hybridized cDNA. 4. Scanning: A laser scanner detects the labeled cDNA, and the resulting data is analyzed to determine gene expression levels.
