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Robert A Setterquist

Publications and source records attributed to Robert A Setterquist.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

The MicroArray Quality Control (MAQC) project shows inter- and intraplatform reproducibility of gene expression measurements.

Over the last decade, the introduction of microarray technology has had a profound impact on gene expression research. The publication of studies with dissimilar or altogether contradictory results, obtained using different microarray platforms to analyze identical RNA samples, has raised concerns about the reliability of this technology. The MicroArray Quality Control (MAQC) project was initiated to address these concerns, as well as other performance and data analysis issues. Expression data on four titration pools from two distinct reference RNA samples were generated at multiple test sites using a variety of microarray-based and alternative technology platforms. Here we describe the experimental design and probe mapping efforts behind the MAQC project. We show intraplatform consistency across test sites as well as a high level of interplatform concordance in terms of genes identified as differentially expressed. This study provides a resource that represents an important first step toward establishing a framework for the use of microarrays in clinical and regulatory settings.

Equipment Design↗

Using RNA sample titrations to assess microarray platform performance and normalization techniques.

We have assessed the utility of RNA titration samples for evaluating microarray platform performance and the impact of different normalization methods on the results obtained. As part of the MicroArray Quality Control project, we investigated the performance of five commercial microarray platforms using two independent RNA samples and two titration mixtures of these samples. Focusing on 12,091 genes common across all platforms, we determined the ability of each platform to detect the correct titration response across the samples. Global deviations from the response predicted by the titration ratios were observed. These differences could be explained by variations in relative amounts of messenger RNA as a fraction of total RNA between the two independent samples. Overall, both the qualitative and quantitative correspondence across platforms was high. In summary, titration samples may be regarded as a valuable tool, not only for assessing microarray platform performance and different analysis methods, but also for determining some underlying biological features of the samples.

Algorithms↗

The External RNA Controls Consortium: a progress report.

Standard controls and best practice guidelines advance acceptance of data from research, preclinical and clinical laboratories by providing a means for evaluating data quality. The External RNA Controls Consortium (ERCC) is developing commonly agreed-upon and tested controls for use in expression assays, a true industry-wide standard control.

Animals↗

Small RNA sequences are readily stabilized by inclusion in a carrier rRNA.

This laboratory previously showed that an RNA derived from 5S ribosomal RNA could be used as a carrier to harbor a nucleic acid "tag" for monitoring genetically engineered or naturally occurring bacteria. The prototype system expressed a specific tagged RNA that was stable and accumulated to high levels. For such a system to be useful there should, however, be little limitation on the sequence composition and length of the insert. To test these limitations, a collection of insertion sequences were created and introduced into the artificial 5S rRNA cassette. This library consisted of random 13- and 50-base oligonucleotides that were inserted into the carrier RNA. We report here that essentially all of the insert-containing RNAs are stable and accumulate to detectable levels. Tagged RNAs were produced by both plasmid-borne and chromosomally integrated expression systems in E. coli and several Pseudomonas strains without obvious effect on the host cell. It is anticipated that in addition to its intended use in environmental monitoring, this system can be used for in vivo selection of useful artificial RNAs. Because the carrier lends stability to the RNAs, the system may also be useful in RNA production.

Base Sequence↗