Cell Labeling With Nucleic Acid Barcodes for Parallel Analysis
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current sample processing techniques are limited by the inability to process multiple biological samples in parallel, particularly in high-throughput applications such as single-cell analysis, due to the lack of efficient methods for partitioning and identifying cells within partitions.
Innovation Solution
The method involves labeling cells with nucleic acid barcode molecules, either lipophilic or amphiphilic, to enable parallel processing and identification of cells within partitions by sequencing the barcoded nucleic acid molecules, allowing for the determination of cellular occupancy and relative sizes based on barcode uptake.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Productivity
If cells are partitioned into separate partitions for separate processing, then single-cell analysis can be performed in a high-throughput manner, but the ability to process multiple samples in parallel is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The invention segments the identification process by assigning unique barcode sequences to different samples and partitions. Each sample receives a distinct barcode, and each partition receives a distinct barcode, enabling parallel processing of multiple samples while maintaining the ability to track individual cells and partitions through sequencing
Solution Approach 2:
The invention introduces barcode sequences as intermediary identifiers that mediate between samples, partitions, and cells. These barcodes serve as information carriers that link biological entities to their organizational context, enabling parallel sample processing while maintaining traceability through sequencing-based identification
2Measurement precision
If barcode molecules are used to label cells for identification, then cells can be tracked within partitions, but the complexity of the labeling and identification process increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention uses universal barcode sequences that can identify multiple levels of organization (sample identity, partition identity, and cell identity) through a single labeling approach. The same barcode technology serves multiple functions: sample barcoding, partition barcoding, and cell tracking, reducing the need for separate identification systems
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses nucleic acid barcode sequences that can be copied and amplified through PCR and other molecular biology techniques. This allows a single barcode label on a cell to generate multiple detectable copies during processing, enabling accurate identification without requiring complex detection equipment
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables high-throughput analysis of multiple biological samples by accurately identifying and tracking cells within partitions, facilitating efficient sequencing and analysis of nucleic acid molecules.
Implementation Method 1
barcodes (e.g., nucleic acid barcode sequences) coupled to lipophilic or amphiphilic moieties
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides methods, systems, and compositions for parallel processing of nucleic acid samples. Methods and systems of the present disclosure comprise the use of sample-specific barcode sequences, which facilitate the multiplexing of samples, detection of discrete cell populations within a pooled population, and detection of partitions comprising more than one cell.