Abstract
DNA microarray technology has become an important tool for large-scale gene expression screening and analysis in genomic research. Gene expression ratios derived from spotted-glass micorarray experiments enable researchers to evaluate the molecular underpinnings of cell behaviors and states. However, several factors that affect microarray data have to be noted, including the characters of photo multiplier tube, the quantum yield of Cy3 and Cy5, and the difference of spotted volume etc. The microarray images provide information from spots intensity and characteristics of signal-background segmentation. In this study, we used a homemade scanner system modified by ourself to detect the fluorescence intensity. After some modification and test, the detection limit of our scanner system was about 3.83 fluorescence molecule/μm2, and it sufficed the microarray experiments. This report will focus on the arrangement and characteristics of scanner. In addition, we discuss future applications and improvement of our scanner system.