Single-Cell Multiomics: an introduction
Hello, single-cell enthusiasts! In this blog post, I’m going to unpack a topic that’s causing quite a buzz in single-cell research: single cell multiomics. I will start with the fundamentals and then gradually delve into this type of approach.
What is Single-Cell Multiomics?
Single-cell research, as the name implies, involves studying each individual cell within a tissue. The term “omics” refers to the vast amount of information that we can collect from one cell. Omics per se refers to one layer of information. Like single-cell genomics, where we get information from the sequence of the DNA, single-cell transcriptomics, from the RNA; or single-cell proteomics, when we are studying proteins. By the way, these are the so-called traditional single-cell omics. In single-cell research, other omics can also be studied, like metabolomics, lipidomics, epigenomics, etc. But returning to our definition, when we talk about multiomics, we’re studying some of these different layers, or omics, together. How can we do it? Continue reading.
Single-Cell Multiomics Approaches
In single-cell research, I would say that there are two ways of doing multiomics: simultaneously or by parts.
Simultaneous is when, in one lab experiment, we study different layers of information (omics) simultaneously, in one go. I call this approach wet lab single-cell multiomics. “By parts” is when we conduct different lab experiments in which we study independent omic layers. As if we are studying single-cell transcriptomics today and proteomics tomorrow. After that, what we will do is combine the different omics data and analyze it together. This approach I call it in silico multiomics.
You may be wondering which method is better. That’s a tricky question without a clear answer. In my opinion, on paper, wet-lab multiomics approaches are always better since they offer the most direct way to uncover relationships between the different omics. From one individual cell, we get all the different layers of information that we want to study. This means fewer confounding variables when compared to the in silico approach. In this last one, the different omics data will come from different cells. So, for me, wet lab single-cell multiomics is the real thing. However, in real life, my opinion can be easily changed. Let me explain why.
Current State of Single-Cell Multiomics
As of July 2023, it is true that in silico single-cell multiomics is yielding better quality results. There are some reasons behind that. On the wet-lab side, there is the fact that the multiomics kits available on the market still have some room for improvement. Let’s not forget that this happens with all types of new technology. Time is key for any kit to “mature”. Another thing that is key is feedback. As users of multiomics kits, the best way for us to help technology evolve is by providing constructive feedback to the companies. Still on the wet lab side, another essential is for us, the users, to get adapted to the new kits. I don’t know about you, but I always need some time to adapt to a new kit. To feel comfortable using it. And no, it is not the same as using a kit to study single-cell transcriptomics.
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On the other hand, in the dry lab, there is a huge need for the development of the right software and tools to be used for the data analysis of single-cell wet lab multiomics approaches. For the moment, the data analysis tools to analyze individual single-cell omics followed by data integration are more robust and clean. Besides, people know how to use them.
All together, depending on your project, in silico single-cell multiomics can be the better option.
Navigating the Market of Kits
There are some multiomics kits available, but their names can be misleading. For instance, both Mission Bio and 10x Genomics offer “single cell multiomics kits,” but they have different uses. Mission Bio’s kit can be used to study DNA alterations and proteins, while 10x Genomics’ kit allows for the study of RNA and chromatin accessibility. Alongside these kits, we also have those that allow us to check for RNA while at the same time being adapted to study proteins simultaneously. BD Biosciences and 10X Genomics are examples of companies that commercialize them. It is important to mention that in this case, we will always need to buy specific antibodies from Biolegend.
Well, it’s crucial to do research and ensure that the kit you’re purchasing aligns with your project’s needs. If you’re unsure, reach out to the companies for support or connect with experts in the field.
Conclusion
This was our dive into the fascinating world of single-cell multiomics. The field is rapidly evolving and holds incredible potential for discoveries. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned researcher, it’s an exciting time to be exploring single-cell research!
Thanks for reading.
Cheers,
Cátia
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