The Advanced Technology Center (ATC), located in Gaithersburg, MD, was established in March 1998 with the first NCI arrayer and scanner. By April 1999, their doors were open as a resource to the NCI research community for training and arrays. The ATC's mission is to:

• manufacture quality cDNA microarrays for comprehensive gene expression analysis


• provide training protocols and technical support to NCI researchers
• develop new microarray technologies and applications

The ATC Microarray Facility, now headed by Dr. Ernest Kawasaki, produces a human array of 9,000 genes. The synthesis of larger human arrays are being investigated utilizing new oligonucleotide technologies. Rat and mouse gene sequences are also being used in these studies. The ATC facility is also responsible for coordinating the use of high-density oligonucleotide arrays and instrumentation obtained from Affymetrix.

Dr. David Munroe heads the Laboratory of Molecular Technology (LMT, SAIC), located at NCI-Frederick. The LMT is NCI's newest state-of-the-art gene discovery facility featuring high-throughput, cutting-edge genomics and analysis capabilities, including microarray services and technology development. The LMT Microarray Group coordinates their efforts with the ATC, and currently offers the Incyte GEM-2-based mouse array. New high-density mouse arrays are under development and will be available soon.

Microarray Steering Committee. Headed by Dr. Jeffrey Green, this steering committee will coordinate production of the gene microarrays currently being printed at both the ATC and at the LMT. The purpose is to facilitate the development of new array technologies, as well as the printing and distribution of microarrays to NCI researchers. Dr. Green will act as liaison between the Steering Committee, scientific investigators, ATC staff, and the LMT, to ensure implementation of programs and technologies that meet the needs of the scientific community. The Steering Committee plans to improve both the quality of the arrays and turnaround time, as well as explore new technologies.

Contact Information: