Feature | RNA-seq | Microarray | OpenArray® |
---|---|---|---|
Dynamic range (order of magnitude) | 5 | 3 | 7–8 |
Price | High | Medium | Medium–low |
Number of genes | Complete set of RNA families and splicings | Transcriptome. Usually, coding mRNAs and small RNAs | Maximum 56–128 genes per analysis |
Probes | Neither design nor previous knowledge of sequences is required | Limitation for number of sequences, design and orientation of probes | Limitation for number of sequences, primers design |
Sensitivity | High and low background | Low and high background | Very high and low background |
Specificity | Very high | Depends on platform | Very high |
Bioinformatics | Under development | Well developed | Very easy |
Sample preparation | Complex. Requires specialized skills for cDNA library preparation | Easy | Easy |
Time | Weeks | Days | Hours |