The spelling of "DNA Chips" is straightforward when you break it down phonetically. "DNA" is spelled [di ɛn eɪ], with the stress on the first syllable. "Chips" is spelled [tʃɪps], with the stress on the first syllable. Together, the word is pronounced as [di ɛn eɪ tʃɪps], with emphasis on "DNA". A DNA chip, also known as a microarray, is a device used to study gene expression and DNA profiling. It works by immobilizing DNA fragments on a surface using a technology called photolithography.
DNA chips, also known as DNA microarrays or biochips, are a type of bioinformatics technology that allow for the simultaneous analysis of large numbers of genes or genetic variations within a single experiment. They consist of small, solid surfaces, typically made of glass or silicon, on which microscopic spots or arrays of DNA molecules are immobilized. These immobilized DNA molecules represent specific genetic sequences or genes of interest.
DNA chips are widely used in molecular biology and genetics research to analyze gene expression patterns, identify genetic variations, and study the interactions between genes and other cellular components. The technology utilizes the principles of hybridization, where fluorescently labeled DNA molecules or DNA fragments are made to specifically bind to the complementary DNA sequences on the chip.
Upon exposure to a biological sample, such as RNA or DNA from cells or tissues, the sample's genetic material hybridizes or binds to the immobilized DNA molecules on the chip. The binding of the sample's genetic material enables the detection and quantification of gene expression levels or the presence of genetic variations within the biological sample.
Due to their high-throughput capabilities, DNA chips have revolutionized the field of genomics by allowing researchers to quickly analyze thousands or even millions of genes simultaneously. This technology has facilitated advancements in biomedical research, personalized medicine, disease diagnosis and prognosis, drug discovery, and genetic screening.
The word "DNA chips" is a compound term formed by combining "DNA" and "chips".
- "DNA" stands for "Deoxyribonucleic acid", a molecule that carries genetic instructions for the development, functioning, growth, and reproduction of all known living organisms. The term "DNA" was coined in 1944 by scientists Oswald Avery, Colin MacLeod, and Maclyn McCarty, who discovered that DNA was responsible for transmitting genetic information.
- "Chips" refers to a thin slice or piece of material, typically semiconductor material, with electronic circuits etched on its surface. The term "chip" originated from the Old English word "cipp", which meant a small piece of wood. It later developed the meaning of a small thin piece of material.
The combination of these two terms, "DNA" and "chips", came into existence when microarray technology emerged in the late 1990s.