Use of microarray analysis to dissect the plant defense response

Microarray analysis is a technology that allows simultaneous measurement of the messenger RNA levels of thousands of genes. There are several different technology platforms in use, including oligo arrays synthesized directly on the underlying substrate, and spotted arrays produced by applying oligonucleotides or other nucleic acids to glass slides. The advantages of various platforms are discussed. Analysis of the large data sets produced from microarray experiments requires the application of statistical methods to define significant differences in gene expression, and computerized algorithms for pattern recognition. Early applications of microarray analysis to studies of disease resistance have led to recognition of the large numbers of genes that respond to infection, insights into the nature of gene-for-gene resistance, efforts to model the topology of the signaling network controlling inducible defense responses, and identification of promoter elements associated with particular expression patterns.