Introduction
In a groundbreaking development, researchers have introduced a novel spatial omics method combining mass spectrometry imaging (MSI) and spatially resolved transcriptomics (SRT). Their findings, published in Nature Biotechnology, have far-reaching implications for the life science industry, especially pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.
Unveiling the Method: A Fusion of MSI and SRT
This innovative method seamlessly merges mass spectrometry imaging and spatially resolved transcriptomics. Previously distinct techniques, their combination allows researchers to visualize both low-molecular metabolites and RNA transcripts within the same biological tissue section. The precision and quality of results remain uncompromised, marking a significant leap in the study of biological tissues.
The researchers successfully applied this method to tissue sections from both mice and human brains, unraveling the mysteries of Parkinson’s disease. By delving into the complex molecular profiles within a single tissue section, scientists gained a deeper understanding of the role of signaling molecules in the disease.
Connecting Gene Expression and Molecular Activity
A pivotal aspect of this method lies in its capability to concurrently visualize molecules and analyze gene activity within the tissue. This allows researchers to explore the intricate connection between gene expression and molecular activity at an unprecedented level, opening doors to new realms of spatial biology and pathological research.
Beyond Neurobiology: A Gateway to Comprehensive Medical Research
While the method showcased its prowess in neurobiology, its applications extend far beyond. The ability to study tumor environments and treatment responses at the molecular level could transform oncological research. By deciphering complex diseases and optimizing therapeutic strategies, this method promises to redefine how we approach medical research.
Conclusion
As pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies dive into the intricacies of diseases, this spatial omics approach provides a powerful tool for unlocking molecular secrets within tissues. The impact extends beyond neurobiology, offering a gateway to comprehensive research in various medical domains.
With the convergence of MSI and SRT, the future of biological and medical research is taking a giant leap forward.
Outsourcing Bioinformatics Analysis: How Bridge Informatics (BI) Can Help
BI’s data scientists prioritize studying, understanding, and reporting on the latest developments so we can advise our clients confidently. From pipeline development and software engineering to deploying your existing bioinformatic tools, Bridge Informatics can support you on every step of your research journey.
As experts across data types from leading sequencing platforms, we can help you tackle the challenging computational tasks of storing, analyzing and interpreting genomic and transcriptomic data. Bridge Informatics’ bioinformaticians are trained bench biologists, so they understand the biological questions driving your computational analysis. Click here to schedule a free introductory call with a member of our team.
Haider M. Hassan, Data Scientist, Bridge Informatics
Haider is one of our premier data scientists. He provides bioinformatic services to clients, including high throughput sequencing, data pre-processing, analysis, and custom pipeline development. Drawing on his rich experience with a variety of high-throughput sequencing technologies, Haider analyzes transcriptional (spatial and single-cell), epigenetic, and genetic landscapes.
Before joining Bridge Informatics, Haider was a Postdoctoral Associate at the London Regional Cancer Centre in Ontario, Canada. During his postdoc, he investigated the epigenetics of late-onset liver cancer using murine and human models. Haider holds a Ph.D. in biochemistry from Western University, where he studied the molecular mechanisms behind oncogenesis. Haider still lives in Ontario and enjoys spending his spare time visiting local parks. If you’re interested in reaching out, please email [email protected] or [email protected]
