Challenge

Make a compact device that can create a completely custom DNA microarray according to customer specifications within 24 hours, with at least 40,000 spots, where the layout and sequence of nucleotides per spot can be programmed at will.

Solution

The device is based on a new type of compact UV laser, which is controlled via mirrors on the surface of the microarray and, while scanning, addresses individual spots. Only exposed spots participate in the next round of synthesis. The process is repeated until the nucleotides have reached the desired length in each spot.

Application

The arrays are suitable for a wide range of analyses, including SNP detection, sequencing, gene expression profiling and genetic selection. The system is also suitable for the preparation of oligopools.

Contribution HIT

Cock Heemskerk, as one of the inventors of the patent that is the basis for the FlexArrayer, has been involved in FlexGen since the beginning. Within the development of FlexArrayer, Heemskerk Innovative Technology acts as an external consultant.