DNA Microarray in a Clinical Setting

With the achievements of the human genome project, the development of the innovative DNA-microarray technology is bringing new understanding of the genetic basis of common diseases. In the last years, microarray technologies has rapidly improved transitioning from basic research application into detection and diagnostic formats. For instance, the most successful application of the genomic assays has been in the subtypization of human cancers, including the ability to predict clinical outcomes. In this chapter, we will outline the basic principles of this technology and provide some real examples of how its use in clinical practice has an enormous potential in rationalizing clinical management, and in advancing strategies for disease prevention and public healthcare.