Highly parallel and efficient single cell mRNA sequencing with paired picoliter chambers

Nat Commun. 2020 Apr 30;11(1):2118. doi: 10.1038/s41467-020-15765-0.

Abstract

ScRNA-seq has the ability to reveal accurate and precise cell types and states. Existing scRNA-seq platforms utilize bead-based technologies uniquely barcoding individual cells, facing practical challenges for precious samples with limited cell number. Here, we present a scRNA-seq platform, named Paired-seq, with high cells/beads utilization efficiency, cell-free RNAs removal capability, high gene detection ability and low cost. We utilize the differential flow resistance principle to achieve single cell/barcoded bead pairing with high cell utilization efficiency (95%). The integration of valves and pumps enables the complete removal of cell-free RNAs, efficient cell lysis and mRNA capture, achieving highest mRNA detection accuracy (R = 0.955) and comparable sensitivity. Lower reaction volume and higher mRNA capture and barcoding efficiency significantly reduce the cost of reagents and sequencing. The single-cell expression profile of mES and drug treated cells reveal cell heterogeneity, demonstrating the enormous potential of Paired-seq for cell biology, developmental biology and precision medicine.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • 3T3 Cells
  • Animals
  • Antineoplastic Agents / pharmacology
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell-Free System
  • Embryonic Stem Cells / metabolism
  • Gene Expression Profiling
  • High-Throughput Nucleotide Sequencing
  • Humans
  • K562 Cells
  • Mice
  • Precision Medicine
  • RNA, Messenger / chemistry*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sequence Analysis, RNA*
  • Single-Cell Analysis / methods*
  • Stem Cells / cytology*

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents
  • RNA, Messenger