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Updated: Jul 13, 2026
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Using Microarrays to Interrogate Microenvironmental Impact on Cellular Phenotypes in Cancer
Published on: May 21, 2019
Selective discussion and transparency in microarray research findings for cancer outcomes
John P A Ioannidis1, Nikolaos P Polyzos, Thomas A Trikalinos
1Clinical and Molecular Epidemiology Unit, Department of Hygiene and Epidemiology, University of Ioannina School of Medicine, Ioannina, Greece. jioannid@cc.uoi.gr
European Journal of Cancer (Oxford, England : 1990)
|July 17, 2007
Summary
Microarray studies often discuss few genes despite identifying many. Public data and processing transparency in cancer research needs improvement for unbiased interpretation.
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Bioinformatics
- Cancer Research
Background:
- Microarray technology is crucial for identifying molecular signatures in cancer.
- Interpreting research findings and ensuring data transparency are vital for scientific reproducibility.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the interpretation of findings and public availability of data and processing details in microarray studies related to cancer outcomes.
- To assess the extent of gene discussion and the nature of commentary in published microarray research.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 46 microarray study articles focusing on major cancer outcomes.
- Identification of molecular signatures using unsupervised and supervised methods.
- Examination of discussed genes, specific comments, and references.
Main Results:
- A median of 675 (unsupervised) and 50 (supervised) genes were selected, but only 8 were discussed.
- 65% of discussed genes had specific comments, with 59% referenced.
- Supportive comments outnumbered negative ones 9:1; data deposition and processing transparency were limited.
Conclusions:
- Microarray research exhibits selective discussion of findings and limited public data transparency.
- Improvements in public transparency and unbiased interpretation are necessary for microarray studies.
- Enhancing data sharing and detailed processing information can bolster the reliability of cancer genomics research.
