MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small noncoding RNAs that control gene expression at the posttranscriptional level through selectively binding to complementary messenger RNA sequences.  Approximately 30% of mammalian genes are regulated by these small RNA molecules, which affect a variety of biological functions, including development, cell differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and maintenance of stemness and imprinting. 
Northern blotting has been the most commonly used method for analyzing individual miRNAs, although recently a number of new approaches have been developed, such as the related real-time PCR and invader assays. Low sensitivity and poor throughput are the main issues of Northern blot analysis. To resolve this problem,  Signosis has developed the miRNA plate assay kits. The kits are highly sensitive, and the biochemical conversion of miRNA molecules into cDNAs is not needed. The procedure of the assay is as simple as incubation and wash.
To analyze a  miRNA with the plate assay, you need to purchase the common component miRNA plate assay kit (MA-0101) and  a specific oligo mix (MO-XXXX) corresponding to the miRNA.