Understanding Spatial Transcriptomics
Spatial transcriptomics has revolutionised how researchers study biology by enabling precise gene expression mapping within tissues. Unlike traditional transcriptomics, which analyses gene expression without spatial information, spatial transcriptomics preserves the tissue context, allowing scientists to understand the intricate interactions between cells. At the forefront of this innovation is 10x Genomics’ Xenium In Situ technology, which provides researchers with a powerful tool for decoding cellular landscapes.
This revolutionary approach is already yielding groundbreaking insights in fields like oncology, neuroscience and immunology, where understanding cellular interactions is critical. For instance, spatial transcriptomics can reveal how cancer cells interact with the immune microenvironment in breast cancer research. Using Xenium, scientists identified distinct T-cell populations (e.g., cytotoxic CD8+ T cells) surrounding the tumor, providing insights into immune evasion mechanisms. The example of breast cancer research is just one of many applications of spatial transcriptomics, showcasing its potential to unravel complex cellular interactions in diverse biological contexts.
Now, let’s dive deeper into the Xenium platform, exploring its unique characteristics and how it can revolutionise your research.
What makes Xenium the ultimate tool for studying gene expression and tissue microenvironments?
The 10x Genomics Xenium In-Situ platform sets a new benchmark in spatial transcriptomics, providing researchers with a transformative approach to studying gene expression and tissue architecture. By combining subcellular resolution, high-throughput capabilities, and multimodal analysis, Xenium redefines how we explore complex biological systems, offering unparalleled precision and flexibility for cutting-edge research.
Xenium In-Situ embodies the next generation of spatial transcriptomics, integrating advanced molecular detection with tissue context. This revolutionary platform allows researchers to probe the intricate relationships between cellular components by simultaneously analyzing RNA transcripts, protein markers, and tissue morphology from a single sample. This integration eliminates the need for separate workflows, streamlining research in fields such as immunology, oncology, neuroscience, and developmental biology.
From Tissue to Transcriptome: How Xenium Works
The Xenium In-Situ workflow exemplifies innovation and efficiency in spatial transcriptomics, providing a streamlined, scalable approach to studying gene expression with spatial resolution. Its combination of advanced probe chemistry, high-resolution imaging, and robust data analysis tools ensures that researchers can uncover meaningful biological insights across a wide range of tissues and applications. The Xenium workflow is fast and efficient, moving from sample preparation to data visualisation in just days.
Sample Preparation: Xenium supports both fresh frozen (FF) and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples. Fresh frozen samples are stored at –80°C and sectioned at 10 μm, while FFPE samples are stored at 4°C and sectioned at 5 μm. This step ensures sample quality for accurate RNA and protein profiling.
Probe Hybridisation and Amplification: Researchers can use pre-designed panels or create custom ones targeting up to 480 genes. Fluorescent probes attach to RNA sequences, and rolling circle amplification boosts signal strength for precise detection.
Fluorescent Imaging and Decoding: Automated imaging captures high-resolution maps of gene expression. Decoding reads fluorescent signals with sub-30 nm accuracy to pinpoint gene expression locations.
Data Visualisation and Analysis: Xenium Explorer, a free desktop app, lets researchers explore data interactively, from tissue structures to individual cells. Onboard analysis delivers results instantly, saving time compared to external processing.
How Can Xenium In-Situ Revolutionise Your Research Across Multiple Fields?
Xenium stands apart as a cutting-edge spatial transcriptomics platform, offering a suite of unparalleled features tailored to address complex biological research challenges. Its ability to analyse up to 5,000 genes in a single run provides exhaustive insights into gene expression and cell-cell interactions, while integrated multimodal analysis combines RNA profiling with protein detection and tissue morphology for a comprehensive view of cellular behavior. With a high-speed workflow requiring minimal hands-on time, flexible panel options for targeted or customized studies, and applications spanning immunology, oncology, neurology, and developmental biology, Xenium empowers researchers to map cell atlases, track spatiotemporal dynamics, and study cellular interactions in health and disease. Coupled with robust support from 10x Genomics—offering grant resources, intuitive software tools like Xenium Explorer, and optimised experiment protocols—Xenium delivers a transformative, user-friendly solution for advancing spatial biology.
Take Your Research to the Next Level with us!
The 10x Genomics Xenium In-Situ platform is more than an advanced research tool—it is a transformative gateway to groundbreaking discoveries in biology. From decoding the intricate dynamics of tumor microenvironments to uncovering the molecular mechanisms behind brain development, Xenium offers unparalleled precision, speed, and adaptability. Its ability to provide subcellular resolution and integrate multimodal analyses empowers researchers to tackle the most complex questions in spatial biology with confidence.
By exploring the capabilities of Xenium, you position your research at the cutting edge of spatial transcriptomics. Whether you’re investigating oncology, neuroscience, or developmental biology, Labena Slovenia’s Contract Research & Development Laboratories are your trusted partner. With our expertise and resources, we can help you unlock the full potential of Xenium, ensuring that your research achieves new heights of innovation and impact.
Contact us for expert guidance and support with Xenium!
