Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Technology Landscape in 2023

• Published in: Stem cells (Dayton, Ohio) Vol. 42; no. 1; pp. 1 - 12
• Main Authors: Qu, Hui-Qi, Kao, Charlly, Hakonarson, Hakon
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: US Oxford University Press 13.01.2024
• Subjects: Base Sequence; Gene Expression Profiling; RNA, Small Nuclear; Sequence Analysis, RNA; Single-Cell Analysis; single-cell RNA sequencing; transcriptomics; cellular heterogeneity; single-nucleus RNA sequencing; gene expression
• ISSN: 1066-5099; 1549-4918; 1549-4918
• DOI: 10.1093/stmcls/sxad077

Abstract Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) has revolutionized our understanding of cellular heterogeneity and the dynamics of gene expression, bearing profound significance in stem cell research. Depending on the starting materials used for analysis, scRNA-seq encompasses scRNA-seq and single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq). scRNA-seq excels in capturing cellular heterogeneity and characterizing rare cell populations within complex tissues, while snRNA-seq is advantageous in situations where intact cell dissociation is challenging or undesirable (eg, epigenomic studies). A number of scRNA-seq technologies have been developed as of late, including but not limited to droplet-based, plate-based, hydrogel-based, and spatial transcriptomics. The number of cells, sequencing depth, and sequencing length in scRNA-seq can vary across different studies. Addressing current technical challenges will drive the future of scRNA-seq, leading to more comprehensive and precise insights into cellular biology and disease mechanisms informing therapeutic interventions. Graphical Abstract Graphical Abstract