Real time technology provides great advancements over PCR-based methods for a broad range of applications. With the increased availability of sequencing information, there is a need for the development and application of high-throughput real time PCR genotyping and gene expression methods that significantly broaden the current screening capabilities. Thermo Fisher Scientific (USA) has released a platform (QuantStudio™ 12K Flex system coupled with OpenArray® technology) with key elements required for high-throughput SNP genotyping and gene expression analysis. This allows for a rapid screening of large numbers of TaqMan® assays (up to 256) in many samples (up to 480) per run. This advanced real-time method involves the use of an array composed of 3,000 through-holes running on the QuantStudio™ 12K with OpenArray® block. The aim of this chapter is to outline the OpenArray® approach while providing a comprehensive in-depth review of the scientific literature on this topic. In agreement with a large number of independent studies, we conclude that the use of OpenArray® technology is a rapid and accurate method for high-throughput and large-scale systems biology studies with high specificity and sensitivity.
Keywords: Association analysis; Gene and miRNA expression profiling; OpenArray® plate; SNP genotyping; TaqMan® assay.