Protein Array

A protein array is widely becoming the platform chosen by researchers for quantitative determination of serum levels. A protein array can be spotted with target peptides, antibodies or complex mixtures utilizing protocols reminiscent of western blot and ELISA. Antibody microarrays exist in two general types: using matched antibody pairs for sandwich-type and relying on single printed antibodies and a direct sample labeling methodology. Cell and molecular biologists interested in measuring protein array levels can utilize standard slide formats or can scale up to 96 well plates to screen hundreds or thousands of samples. Some key requirements are multiplex detection utilizing multiple antibody tags, flexibility in adopting new dyes for specific antibody epitopes and high resolution imaging of high density spots with a protein array.