The Expression Analysis Core at the UC Davis Genome Center has experience with the NimbleGen maskless array synthesis technology, and recommends this platform as an option for techniques requiring high density microarrays.

Previously the only option for academic researchers to use NimbleGen arrays involved sending samples away to Iceland for the complete service.  While this continues to be an option, recent developments have enabled NimbleGen to sell arrays to campus researchers for local processing. We can carry out processing of your NimbleGen arrays in the Expression Analysis core.  Services that can be accessed include amplicon labeling, hybridization, scanning, array stripping, and analysis.  Clients would order the arrays themselves, then bring them to the facility for use.  Following initial hybridizations, the arrays can be stripped and re-used so we recommend you take advantage of the stripping service.  Your arrays can be stored in our facility in a dessicated chamber until you're ready to use them again.

NimbleGen products and services are particularly suited for two types of experiments:

1. Chromatin immunoprecipitation--microarray hybridizations (ChIP-chip): uses whole genome arrays, whole genome promoter specific arrays, or custom designed arrays.

2. Comparative genomic hybridization (CGH): uses whole human genome tiled arrays or custom designed, region specific arrays.

These are the two main areas where the array synthesis technology developed by NimbleGen offers a distinct scientific and economic advantage over other array platforms. However, other types of experiments are also possible. More information about NimbleGen can be found on their web site. You can also look at a catalog of off-the-shelf arrays provided by the company to get an idea of what is currently available. However, custom array synthesis is a major focus of NimbleGen's activities and a big advantage of their maskless array synthesis technology.