The Ultimate Tool

Microarray

It may not look impressive, but this device—a microarray—is revolutionizing genomic research and medicine. Scientists use this glass chip to compare tens of thousands of genes at once. The results have many applications, from predicting effective medicines to pinpointing genetic roots of diseases. Pharmaceutical companies use this technology to streamline drug development; patients one day can anticipate both diagnoses and treatments tailored to their own genomes.

Gene Hunting

Microarrays speed the process of sifting through the 3.2 billion DNA units of the human genome to find genetic errors that cause disease. Identifying these mutations could lead to new diagnostic tools and treatments.

Perfect Prescriptions

In the future, doctors will predict which medicines will work for you by comparing your genes to those already studied. The results will suggest a medicinal "cocktail" customized to your genes.

Medical Histories

Microarray test results could well become our medical files. This record can show your genetic past and foreshadow your future. It can also reveal genetic secrets of your relatives.