Affymetrix

Definition

Affymetrix is a biotechnology company known for developing microarray technology, which allows researchers to analyze gene expression and genotyping on a large scale. Their platforms enable the simultaneous measurement of thousands of genes, making it easier to understand complex biological processes and disease mechanisms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Affymetrix revolutionized gene expression analysis by introducing the GeneChip technology, which uses complementary DNA to detect gene expression levels.
2. The arrays produced by Affymetrix can measure thousands of genes simultaneously, providing a comprehensive view of gene activity within a sample.
3. Affymetrix platforms are widely used in both research and clinical settings, facilitating studies on cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and various genetic disorders.
4. The company’s technology has been instrumental in the development of personalized medicine, allowing for tailored treatments based on individual genetic profiles.
5. Affymetrix was acquired by Thermo Fisher Scientific in 2016, further expanding its capabilities in genomics and biotechnology.

Review Questions

• How does Affymetrix technology improve the analysis of gene expression compared to traditional methods?
  • Affymetrix technology enhances gene expression analysis by allowing simultaneous measurement of thousands of genes using microarrays. This high-throughput capability makes it possible to gather extensive data in a shorter time frame than traditional methods, which typically analyze genes one at a time. Consequently, researchers can obtain a broader understanding of gene interactions and regulatory mechanisms that are crucial for deciphering complex biological phenomena.
• Discuss the impact of Affymetrix's GeneChip technology on the field of personalized medicine.
  • The GeneChip technology from Affymetrix has significantly advanced personalized medicine by enabling detailed gene expression profiling and genotyping. This allows healthcare professionals to tailor treatments based on an individual's genetic makeup, leading to more effective and targeted therapies. By understanding how specific genes influence drug responses and disease susceptibility, clinicians can make informed decisions that enhance patient outcomes and minimize adverse effects.
• Evaluate how the acquisition of Affymetrix by Thermo Fisher Scientific has influenced the landscape of genomics research and technology.
  • The acquisition of Affymetrix by Thermo Fisher Scientific has had profound implications for genomics research and technology by consolidating resources and expertise. This merger has enabled more extensive development of integrated solutions for genetic analysis, enhancing product offerings and improving accessibility for researchers. As a result, it has fostered innovation in genomic technologies, supporting advancements in fields such as cancer research, diagnostics, and drug discovery, while positioning Thermo Fisher as a leading player in the biotechnology market.

Related terms

Microarray: A laboratory tool used to detect the expression of thousands of genes at once by hybridizing DNA or RNA samples to a grid of known sequences.

Gene Expression Profiling: The process of measuring the activity (expression) of thousands of genes at once to create a global picture of cellular function.

Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP): A variation in a single nucleotide that occurs at a specific position in the genome, often used in genetic studies to identify associations with diseases.