This invention describes a new method of constructing double-stranded DNA (dsDNA)
microarrays based on the use of pre-synthesized or natural DNA duplexes without
a stem-loop structure. The complementary oligonucleotide chains are bonded together
by a novel connector that includes a linker for immobilization on a matrix. A non-enzymatic
method for synthesizing double-stranded nucleic acids with this novel connector
enables the construction of inexpensive and robust dsDNA/dsRNA microarrays. DNA-DNA
and DNA-protein interactions are investigated using the microarrays.