Cofinancing OZR FWO Hercules MZW - High-parametric single-cell protein profiling in intact tissues

Single-cell multi-omic technologies have emerged as a disruptive innovation that is revolutionizing biomedical research. Single-cell sequencing of cells in suspension allows for an unbiased assesment of RNA and protein expression in thousands of individual cells. However, an
important next frontier is to complement single-cell sequencing with tissue profiling methods that preserve spatial information. This will allow for mapping of cell populations in intact tissues, offering key insights into cellcell interactions and the tissue architecture. We were early
adopters of single-cell sequencing methodologies and now aim to further expand our omics platform by acquiring a state-of-the-art spatial protein analysis technology. The Akoya CODEX allows for high-parametric tissue profiling at single-cell resolution, allowing for the simultaneous
detection of up to 40+ markers. The technology relies on iterative imaging using oligonucleotide probes and DNA barcoded antibodies combined with an automated fluidics setup. To obtain high quality imaging we will pair the Akoya CODEX fluidics system with a state-of-the-art Zeiss Axio
Observer setup. The CODEX will synergize with our existing platforms, allowing for cross-platform multi-omic analysis. This investment will help us to maintain our position at the forefront of single-cell omics-enabled research.