Information processing issues and solutions associated with microarray technology

Managing vast amounts of information associated with DNA array technology presents a challenge. This article describes a synergistic analysis management (SAM) system, which integrates microarray and laboratory data along with analysis steps to present a synergistic view to the researcher. We describe tools for data management in array fabrication, automated image analysis, and array data mining. All the described modules allow for seamless flow of information and are connected through a database. SAM will enhance microarray projects at pharmaceutical and academic institutions, which face the problems of high throughput microarray data management. © 2000 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Lab Robotics and Automation 12:317–327, 2000