Abstract

Development of Novel Single Cell Analysis Platforms to Dissect Cellular Heterogeneity

Bart Westendorp, Assistant Professor, Department of Pathobiology, Utrecht University The Netherlands

The cell is a fundamental unit in the life sciences, and recent breakthrough technologies such as single cell RNA-sequencing have shown that substantial variation exists between cells, even within a seemingly homogenous population. To fully understand the importance and molecular basis of cellular heterogeneity in development, disease progression, and therapy responses, it is essential to combine single cell genomics with behavior or fates of the same individual cells. To achieve this goal, we have been developing innovative platforms that enable us to combine live cell microscopy with single cell RNA- and DNA-sequencing. These platforms include customized fluorescence microscope systems that allow capturing of individual cells of interest. I will discuss our latest approaches and provide examples of biological questions we are answering using our technology.