Profiling the miRNome: Detecting Global miRNA Expression Levels with DNA Microarrays
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The ability to profile the miRNome (global microRNA/miRNA expression levels) accurately has become essential for multiple
            aspects of biological research. However, this process is complicated by the short length of the mature miRNA, the existence
            of multiple intermediate miRNA forms, and highly similar mature miRNA sequences amongst miRNA family members. Here, we review
            the process of experimental design and sample preparation for a miRNome profiling experiment. The essential need for careful
            sample quality control is also discussed. Several solutions have emerged using DNA microarray hybridization-based platforms
            that have been developed specifically for miRNA expression analysis. Commercially available miRNA expression profiling platforms
            from Affymetrix, Agilent, Exiqon, and Invitrogen are compared and contrasted. Finally, we detail the steps for data preprocessing,
            normalization, and statistical analysis to identify differentially expressed miRNAs. This review will help guide potential
            users of this relatively new technology in making informed choices during the miRNome profiling process, from initial experimental
            design to final data analysis.
         
      









