Approaches to the analysis of gene expression using mRNA - A technical overview

Bartlett, J.M.S. (2002) Approaches to the analysis of gene expression using mRNA - A technical overview. Molecular Biotechnology, 21(2), pp. 149-160. (doi: 10.1385/MB:21:2:149)

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Publisher's URL: http://www.humanapress.com/ArticleDetail.pasp?issn=1073-6085&acode=MB:21:2:149

Abstract

Messenger RNA is the blueprint for all proteins expressed within living systems. Therefore, the study of mRNA expression within normal and diseased tissues is central to our understanding of biological systems. However, blueprints, in themselves, perform no function unless they are used to produce the material for which they code. Spurious results may frequently result from poorly designed or inappropriate studies. This review seeks to highlight both the pitfalls and the promise of various approaches to the analysis of mRNA in different systems and to place these studies in the wider context of research approaches aimed at understanding the function of living systems. The various techniques for the analysis of mRNA are discussed, with particular reference to their potential uses and problems and relevant examples are cited from the literature. It is hoped that this overview of the uses of analytical approaches will allow both the novice researcher and the more experienced scientist to better structure research approaches.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Bartlett, Prof John
Authors: Bartlett, J.M.S.
Subjects:Q Science > QH Natural history > QH345 Biochemistry
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences
Journal Name:Molecular Biotechnology
Publisher:Spinger
ISSN:1073-6085
ISSN (Online):1559-0305

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