Tissue microarrays have been used effectively to study representative tissue from large groups of patients, with minimal technical and reagent costs. The construction of these arrays may appear complex, but with the use of a semiautomated tissue arrayer and a degree of manual dexterity, symmetrical, high-density arrays can be produced. Here, we highlight where problems in the construction, cutting, and evaluation of tissue microarrays can occur and how these can be prevented.
