In step two, the microbeads are loaded and the sequencing process is initiated. Typically, five rounds produce about 16-20 signature sequence products. Several rounds of sequence determinations are performed and a sequence pattern or signature is identified from each microbead. The process is performed in parallel with about one million sequence signatures produced per overall assay. Each signature sequence is then analyzed and compared with all other signatures and all identical signatures are counted. The level of expression of any single gene is then calculated.
The image on the right is included to demonstrate the complexity of the MPSS technique. The image illustrates the sequencing process and analysis of sequence patterns.
Note: The MPSS technique is quite complex. If you would like a more in-depth explanation, please click on the "More Info" button below and access the resources that are provided.
