Vital intertwining
A study on a blood parasite's genome has led to the development of a new material with unusual properties. The material combines toughness and softness, characteristics that are typically not found in the same substance.
Single Cells
Articles tagged with Single Cells
New tool automates cell identification in complex datasets
A new computational tool called scODIN simplifies single-cell analysis by automating cell type identification in scRNA-seq data. It allows users to define specific cell subsets at different levels of detail and recognizes cells with intermediate phenotypes or transitional states, capturing complexity missed by traditional methods.
Novel technology enables better understanding of complex biological samples
Researchers developed t-SPESI technology to visualize cell parts and analyze lipid distributions in complex biological samples. This enables the detection of abnormal lipids linked to disease, advancing therapies and diagnostic techniques.
New technique expands tissues so hundreds of biomolecules can be seen inside cells
Researchers have developed a new method that uses expansion microscopy to overcome the spatial resolution problem in mass spectrometry imaging. This allows scientists to detect hundreds of biomolecules at the single cell level in their native locations, enabling better understanding of their functions and interactions.
New method uses DNA barcodes for high throughput RNA and protein detection in deep tissue
A new technique called cycleHCR uses DNA barcodes to track hundreds of RNA and protein molecules in single cells within thick biological samples. This allows researchers to decipher how genes function in different parts of an organism, how they enable development, and how they might be altered in diseases.
Advances and applications in single-cell and spatial genomics
This review highlights the transformative capabilities of single-cell and spatial genomics, providing critical insights into disease mechanisms and developing innovative therapies. The technologies enable comprehensive cell atlases, tracing the evolution of sequencing methods and incorporating multi-omics approaches, which significantl...
Combining long- and short-read sequencing in single cells reveals new mRNAs in neurodegenerative diseases
Researchers at Sanford Burnham Prebys used two sequencing methods to reveal new mRNAs associated with Alzheimer's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, and Parkinson's disease. The study found vast mRNA isoform diversity in genes related to neurodegenerative diseases.
DNA packaging directly affects how fast DNA is copied in cells
The study found that DNA packaging sends signals through an unusual pathway, affecting cell division and growth. Chromatin acts as a guide, telling the cell how to read and use the information in the DNA.
Mapping the sex life of Malaria parasites at single cell resolution, reveals the genetics underlying Malaria transmission
Scientists have mapped the global repertoire of genes that determine the male or female sexual fates in Plasmodium falciparum malaria parasites. This study reveals key regulators of gene expression during development and identifies novel candidate 'driver' genes, shedding light on the complex biology of malaria transmission.
Rewriting the evolutionary history of critical components of the nervous system
A new study found that potassium ion channels in the Shaker family were present in single-cell organisms before the origin of the nervous system. This discovery challenges the conventional understanding of how these ion channels evolved alongside the nervous system.
Pioneering the cellular frontier
Researchers from Brookhaven National Laboratory have developed an effective way to image a single cell using multiple techniques, providing significant implications in medicine and agriculture. The team used advanced X-ray imaging technologies to capture high-resolution images of the cellular structure and chemical processes within cells.
Study finds widespread ‘cell cannibalism,’ related phenomena across tree of life
Research reveals cell-in-cell phenomena are common in non-cancer cells, playing roles in development, homeostasis and stress response. The study argues against targeting cell-in-cell events for cancer therapy, opening new avenues for research in evolutionary biology, oncology and regenerative medicine.
‘MUSIC map’ reveals some brain cells age faster and are more prevalent in Alzheimer’s
Engineers at the University of California San Diego used a new technique called MUSIC to map out interactions between chromatin and RNA in individual brain cells. The study found that some brain cells age faster and are more prevalent in individuals with Alzheimer's disease, particularly in women.
NTU Singapore and Temasek Polytechnic scientists replace fishmeal in aquaculture with microbial protein derived from soybean processing wastewater
Researchers at NTU Singapore and Temasek Polytechnic develop a new, sustainable feed alternative for farmed Asian seabass, reducing reliance on wild-caught fishmeal. The single cell protein is cultivated from soybean processing wastewater, offering a promising solution to the aquaculture industry's environmental challenges.
AI tool creates ‘synthetic’ images of cells for enhanced microscopy analysis
A new AI model generates realistic images of single cells, which are used as synthetic data to train an AI model for better cell segmentation. The researchers found that providing a more diverse dataset during training improves performance.
Machine learning method reveals chromosome locations in individual cell nucleus
A new machine learning method called scGHOST has been introduced to identify single-cell 3D genome subcompartments and connect them to gene expression patterns. This can reveal the spatial organization of chromosomes within the nucleus, shedding light on how DNA structure influences gene expression and disease processes.
Discovered how to predict whether patients with leukemia will be sensitive to epigenetic drugs
Researchers discovered a link between single cancer cell mutations and clinical response to epigenetic therapy in myelodysplastic syndrome. Patients showing treatment benefits had decreased mutation counts in stem cells and immature granulocytes, suggesting early tumor elimination is key to therapy success.
New technique efficiently offers insight into gene regulation
Researchers developed a new technique called MAbID to study multiple mechanisms of gene regulation simultaneously, enabling the connection between different gene expression processes. This technology can be applied to various fields, including human development and disease research.
Interpreting large-scale medical datasets
A new generative model named scPoli enables multi-scale representations of cells and samples, facilitating the integration of high-quality large-scale datasets for novel biological insights and disease understanding. This model accelerates atlas building and usage, ultimately accelerating disease understanding and therapy development.
An ancient anti-cancer mechanism: DISE
Researchers at Northwestern University identified a new evolutionarily conserved RNAi-based form of cell death called Death Induced by Survival gene Elimination (DISE), which targets essential survival genes in cancer cells. This mechanism is ancient and effective against all cancers tested.
Researchers develop first method to study microRNA activity in single cells
Researchers have developed a new method to detect microRNA targets at the level of single cells, allowing for detailed study of gene regulation. This breakthrough enables researchers to follow microRNA targeting of thousands of RNAs during biological processes, revealing surprising complexity in each cell.
Three new articles in the Special Issue “Single-Cell and Spatially Resolved Omics - I” of Journal of Pharmaceutical Analysis Articles describe how single-cell and spatially resolved omics can identify novel therapeutic targets
Researchers have identified novel therapeutic targets using single-cell and spatially resolved omics, including cannabidiol for colorectal tumors, Cux1 as a potential target for dry skin diseases, and microglia communication for Alzheimer's disease. These studies offer hope for future treatments.
Study unravels the mysteries of actin filament polarity
Researchers have revealed key atomic structures of actin filament ends using cryo-electron microscopy. The study provides fundamental insights into the mechanism behind actin filament polarity, shedding light on disorders such as muscle weakness and heart problems.
Odd cells found in lungs of patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Researchers found variant cells in lungs of IPF patients that can drive fibrosis and inflammation. These cells may be targeted for future therapy, offering new hope for treatment.
Automated, accurate reporting for NGS-based clonality testing
Researchers have developed an automated calling algorithm for determining B and T cell clonality from NGS data with greater sensitivity than previous models. The new model increases the assay's sensitivity in detecting clonality, allowing for more accurate diagnosis and monitoring of lymphoproliferative disorders.
OHSU researchers assemble comprehensive atlas of gene mutations in human tissue
Researchers assembled the largest atlas of post-zygotic genome mutations in healthy human tissue, providing insight into genetic underpinnings of disease. The study found that most detectable mutations occurred later in life, but some arose systematically and predictably as people age.
Creating an artificial pathologist
A team of scientists at Max Planck Institute for the Science of Light developed a method to quickly and accurately diagnose cancer using artificial intelligence and real-time deformability cytometry. The method reduces analysis time from hours to under 30 minutes, enabling faster decision-making during surgery.
Uncovering hidden mitochondrial mutations in single cells
Researchers have developed a new technology to sequence individual mitochondria in single cells, allowing for unbiased analysis of full-length mtDNA. This has revealed complex patterns of pathogenic mtDNA mutations and the potential risks of off-target mutations in genetic editing strategies.
Meet the hybrid micro-robot: The tiny robot that is able to navigate in a physiological environment and capture targeted damaged cells
Researchers developed a hybrid micro-robot that can navigate in physiological environments and capture targeted damaged cells. The micro-robot uses electric and magnetic mechanisms to identify and transport single cells for further study.
Automated detection of isolated single cells using microscope images and AI
A research team developed an AI-powered method to automatically detect single cells in microscopic images, achieving a mean Average Precision (mAP) of 0.989. This technology reduces human labor and improves single-cell analysis, enabling the discovery of new treatment methods for diseases.
Pioneering method for stem cell diagnostics: Leif S. Ludwig receives Paul Ehrlich and Ludwig Darmstaedter Early Career Award
Leif Ludwig's analytical method allows for easier disentanglement of blood cell trajectories, enabling identification of leukemia cell development or degenerative changes. This breakthrough opens up possibility for human medicine to conduct studies in clinical practice and derive therapeutic interventions.
Aging | Single-cell transcriptomics of peripheral blood in the aging mouse
Researchers identified 17 clusters of single cells in peripheral blood, showing upregulation of antigen processing and presentation pathways and downregulation of genes involved in ribosome pathways with age. The study also found senescent T cells resistant to apoptosis, potentially targeted for treatment.
Beyond the average cell
Researchers from Washington University in St. Louis and Purdue University used single-cell data to develop a new framework for understanding the relationship between cell growth, DNA replication, and division in bacteria. They found that individual cells can exquisitely coordinate these processes, despite the 'noisiness' of each process.
Spatial lung cell atlas offers insights into disease and immune function
A new lung cell atlas has revealed 11 new cell types and a previously unknown immune niche in the airways, which could help prevent or treat respiratory diseases. The atlas provides detailed insights into how cells interact and communicate with each other in healthy lungs.
AI image recognition allows automatic identification and sorting of single bacterial cells
A new system called EasySort AUTO uses artificial intelligence image recognition to sort single bacterial cells, increasing efficiency by over 93% and preserving cell vitality. The technology has been successfully tested on yeast and E. coli bacteria, with over 80% of sorted cells able to be cultured.
Building a 3D brain atlas
Researchers will map developing brains, identifying cell types, activities, and locations as they differentiate during development and change throughout childhood and adolescence. The project aims to learn more about normal, healthy brain development and better understand how diseases like autism, schizophrenia, and Parkinson's emerge.
Huge unveiling of schizophrenia brain cells show new treatment targets
Researchers at the University of Copenhagen have made a breakthrough in understanding schizophrenia by analyzing individual brain cells. The study identified specific neurons and networks affected by the disease, suggesting that targeting these areas could lead to new treatment options.
CAPITAL: A major advance in single-cell RNA data analysis
Researchers at Osaka University have developed a computational tool called CAPITAL that can carry out accurate comparative analysis of complex single-cell sequencing datasets. The tool uses a pseudotime trajectory approach to align and compare cells along hypothetical paths reflecting their progress through transitional processes.
Researchers find tumor microbiome interactions may identify new approaches for pancreatic cancer treatment
Researchers from Rutgers Cancer Institute have identified specific microorganisms associated with inflammation and poor survival in pancreatic tumors. These microbial signatures can be used as new targets for earlier diagnosis or treatment of the fourth leading cause of cancer death.
New study reveals how Escherichia coli cells evade antibacterial treatment
Researchers used Raman spectroscopy to identify and analyze Escherichia coli persister cells, finding they have enhanced metabolic activities despite being in a dormant state. This new understanding could lead to the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
Individual cells are smarter than thought
Researchers discovered that individual cells use multimodal perception to integrate external and internal cues when making decisions. This finding has significant implications for understanding cellular decision-making in various contexts, including cancer treatment resistance.
Scientists at Brown develop new method and device to isolate single cells using electric fields
Researchers at Brown University have developed a new method to isolate single cells from complex tissues using electric fields. This approach results in high-quality, intact single cells that are superior to standard isolation methods in terms of labor, cost, and efficiency.
By Odin’s Beard! Tubulins named after the Norse god may be the missing link between single-celled organisms and human cells
Researchers at Nagoya University discovered a tubulin homolog protein in the archaeon Odinarchaeota, which forms microtubules critical to cell organization. The study reveals an intermediate structure between bacterial and eukaryotic cells, shedding light on the evolution of complex cellular features.
New WVU program trains next generation of toxicologists to collect, analyze air samples from mining, fracking sites
The WVU program trains next generation of toxicologists to collect, analyze air samples from mining, fracking sites, using the university's Inhalation Facility. Students will work with preceptors from various fields to investigate health effects of inhaling toxicants.
Multi-tissue cell atlases lead to leap of understanding of immunity and disease
Researchers created multi-tissue cell atlases to transform our knowledge of biology, infection, and disease. The studies revealed novel cell functions, immune cell types, and disease genes across the human body.
Climate resilient microalgae could help restore coral reefs
Researchers from Uppsala University developed a new method to predict temperature tolerance in individual microalgae symbionts, enabling the identification of climate resilient cells. This study aims to accelerate coral reef restoration efforts by introducing more robust coral symbionts to combat climate change.
ERC Advanced Grant for cardiac research at the MDC
The Max Delbrück Center researcher is investigating the mechanism of how the heart responds to environmental factors and adjusts its elastic properties. He plans to develop technologies for single-cell mechanics, -transcriptomics, -proteomics to enable higher rates of throughput for multi-omics approaches.
Scientists characterize fertilizer uptake by maize in unprecedented detail, opening doors to improved yields
Researchers used single cell RNA-sequencing to identify specific cells and genes in maize roots responsible for nitrate uptake. The study provides valuable insights into optimizing root nutrient uptake ability in crops.
Leveraging AI to work with cells
Researchers at Northwestern University developed an AI-assisted Nanofountain Probe Electroporation system to engineer stem cells. The new method reduces cell loss and increases throughput, enabling selective manipulation of individual cells in micro-arrays.
New technology enables unprecedented glimpse inside single brain cells
Researchers developed a new genomic technology to analyze DNA, RNA and chromatin from a single cell, providing a comprehensive database for better understanding of brain diseases. The technology helped identify 63 cell types in the human frontal cortex region.
Revealing the function of Mkx in periodontal ligament homeostasis
A study published at Tokyo Medical and Dental University found that Mkx regulates cellular heterogeneity and gene expression in the PDL, revealing its importance in homeostasis. The results showed that a deficiency of Mkx promotes ossification in the PDL and suggests a compensatory mechanism via Scx to maintain homeostasis.
Genomic regulatory map of the zebrafish
Researchers created a comprehensive genomic regulatory map of a 24-hour-old zebrafish embryo, identifying millions of regulatory segments that control gene transcription. The study used single-cell technologies and machine learning algorithms to analyze genome data from over 23,000 nuclei.
Human olfactory mucosa cell model opens a new perspective on Alzheimer’s disease
Researchers developed a new cell model of the olfactory mucosa, which is impaired in patients with Alzheimer's disease. The study provides new insights into the disease pathophysiology, including the potential role of viral infections and air pollutants in brain function.
Pioneering new technique to barcode cells
Scientists have developed a pioneering new technique to barcode individual cells more accurately and efficiently. The method combines artificial intelligence with microfluidics, allowing for real-time analysis of single cells and enabling the efficient sorting and counting of cells.
Neuroscientists illuminate how brain cells ‘navigate’ in the light and dark
Researchers identified brain cells called angular head velocity (AHV) cells that track head motion speed, which improves estimation of own head angular speed when visual cues are available. This study sheds light on the neural mechanisms underlying navigation and self-motion guidance in the brain.
For less than $10, anyone can now get up close and explore single cells in VR
A team of scientists developed a free VR tool called singlecellVR, allowing users to explore single-cell datasets in VR. The program is built on previous advancements and enables users to visualize their own precomputed data directly from commonly used single-cell analysis tools.
Genome Research publishes a special issue in Single-cell Genomics
The special issue features original research on novel computational methods for single-cell genomics, as well as perspective review articles on the past, present, and future of the field. Key findings include advances in cell type identification and classification, single-cell epigenetics, and spatial transcriptomics.
Taking microscopic shape without a microscope
Scientists from Nara Institute of Science and Technology have created a simple and fast method for detecting cell shape as they pass through a microfluidic channel. The team used changes in electrical impedance to measure the asymmetry of individual cells, which may greatly accelerate biological experiments.
Innovation massively expands view into workings of single cells
Researchers have devised a way to multiply the accessible details of gene activity in individual cells, allowing for better understanding of cancer development and brain function. The new method delivers about a ten-fold improvement in DNA recovery from single cells and reduces sequencing costs by one third.
One in a million: Fluorescent 'microtags' help track individual cells
Researchers at Skoltech have designed a labeling system for individual cells using polymer multilayer microcapsules that can be easily reproducible and non-toxic. The system allows for the tracking of single-cell behavior and migration with extreme precision, facilitating studies on cell movement and communication in populations.