Microarray analysis/Array-CGH is an efficient and sensitive method of molecular cytogenetics that serves as detection system for the loss and gain of genomic regions. The resolution limit of conventional cytogenetics is approximately 5 Mb, whereas Microarrays/ Array-CGH can detect genomic imbalances with a resolution of <100 kb. Using specialized Array designs, the resolution can be increased to <200 bp for specific target regions.
DNA from patients and reference samples are labeled with different fluorescent dyes and are co-hybridized with immobilized DNA fragments (probes) on a carrier array. These probes are distributed over the human genome. Differences in the copy number lead to a shift of the fluorescent signal of each probe. These signals are detected with a laser scanner. Specialized software is used to assign probes to the respective gene regions and visualize them, a process known as “molecular karyotyping”.
We recommend to clarify the assumption of costs with your health insurance. If needed, we provide you with a detailed estimation of costs.
Array-CGH analysis is also a useful method for the following investigations:
- Exact characterization of aberrations detected using classical cytogenetics
- Verification of aberrations that appear to be balanced
- Characterization of genomic rearrangements
- Additional analysis of molecular genetic processes (e.g. secondary characterization of MLPA results, validation of NGS results)
- 3-5 ml EDTA blood or 5 µg of genomic DNA
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Processing time: 2-4 weeks