Application of single-cell RNA sequencing in embryonic development

Genomics. 2020 Nov;112(6):4547-4551. doi: 10.1016/j.ygeno.2020.08.007. Epub 2020 Aug 8.

Abstract

Embryonic development is a complex process that is regulated by a series of precise cellular behaviours. The limited number of cells in the early stages of embryonic development represents a challenge for studying early gene regulation and maintaining cell sternness. Single-cell sequencing is a new technology for high-throughput sequencing analysis at the single-cell level that not only reflects the heterogeneity between cells but also reveals gene expression characteristics in different cells from limited samples. Currently, the widespread application of single-cell RNA sequencing technology is gradually changing our understanding of disease pathogenesis. This article reviews the application of single-cell RNA sequencing in embryonic development in recent years and provides innovative ideas for research on embryonic development and the treatment of diseases related to embryonic development.

Keywords: Cellular heterogeneity; Embryonic development; Single-cell RNA sequencing.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease / genetics
  • Embryonic Development / genetics*
  • Humans
  • RNA-Seq*
  • Single-Cell Analysis*
  • Vertebrates / genetics