¹Biometric Research Branch, Division of Cancer Treatment & Diagnosis, National Cancer Institute, 9000 Rockville Pike, MSC #7434, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA

Correspondence: R Simon, E-mail: rsimon@nih.gov

Received 27 May 2003; Revised 28 July 2003; Accepted 8 August 2003.

Abstract

DNA microarrays are a potentially powerful technology for improving diagnostic classification, treatment selection and therapeutics development. There are, however, many potential pitfalls in the use of microarrays that result in false leads and erroneous conclusions. This paper provides a review of the key features to be observed in developing diagnostic and prognostic classification systems based on gene expression profiling and some of the pitfalls to be aware of in reading reports of microarray-based studies.