Affymetrix

Affymetrix, Inc. was a biotechnology company that developed DNA microarrays and the GeneChip platform for high-throughput genomic analysis. The company played a leading role in the commercialization of microarray technology used for gene expression profiling and genetic variation studies.

Founded in 1992 in Santa Clara, California, Affymetrix emerged from academic and industry research into microarray technology. It contributed to the popularization of parallel, large-scale analyses of gene expression and sequence variation, enabling researchers to study thousands of genes simultaneously.

Technology and products: The core GeneChip technology uses photolithographic synthesis to produce high-density oligonucleotide microarrays on a solid substrate. These chips support a range of assays, including gene expression profiling, SNP genotyping, and other genomic analyses. Affymetrix offered microarray hardware, such as scanners, along with reagents and data analysis software, and maintained a broad catalog of GeneChip arrays for various organisms and applications.

Corporate history and fate: Affymetrix grew to be a leading supplier of microarray technology in academic and industrial settings. In 2010, Thermo Fisher Scientific completed its acquisition of Affymetrix, integrating the GeneChip line into its life sciences portfolio. The Affymetrix brand was subsequently incorporated into Thermo Fisher’s broader product lines.

Impact: The GeneChip platform and related microarray technologies facilitated rapid, large-scale studies in functional genomics and personalized medicine, enabling researchers to investigate gene expression patterns and genetic variation across diverse organisms. Over time, the field shifted toward alternative platforms and next-generation sequencing, influencing the evolution of genomic analysis tools.