Since its launch in 2023, the VITA single-cell transcriptome solution for formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples has helped numerous research teams overcome significant challenges previously associated with single-cell transcriptome studies using FFPE samples. Drawing from invaluable user feedback, we have continuously refined our protocols to enhance user experience and optimize outcomes. In this article, we summarize key tips and insights for users of the VITA single-cell transcriptome solution for FFPE samples. These essential practical insights and tips aim to streamline FFPE sample preparation and processing on the VITA platform, helping researchers achieve smoother and more efficient workflows, and high-quality single-cell transcriptome data. I. Tips for FFPE Sample Preparation Tip 1: Refine FFPE Tissue Roll Thickness. For optimal results, use FFPE tissue rolls with a thickness between 10 and 20 μm. Rolls thinner than 10 μm can lead to increased nuclear fragmentation, while rolls thicker than 20 μm may hinder reagent penetration due to the density of the tissue. Tip 2: Avoid Using FFPE Block Edges. Avoid selecting FFPE rolls from the edges of the block, as prolonged air exposure and reduced tissue content in these areas can compromise sample quality and integrity. Tip 3: Adjust Sample Volume. Ensure that the tissue…

Bacterial infections are on the rise, presenting increasingly complex challenges to human health. The mechanisms of infection often involve complex interactions between various species. The synergistic interactions within and between bacterial populations can enhance pathogenicity, antibiotic resistance, and evasion of host immune responses. Understanding how different bacterial species interact within these mixed populations is crucial for developing preventive stategies and treatments for infections and to combat cirtical phenomena such as antibiotic resitance. In 2022, M20 Genomics introduced VITApilote MscRNA-seq, a revolutionary technology in high-throughput single-species single-bacterium transcriptome analysis. By leveraging random primers for RNA capture, this innovative platform not only enables precise single-cell transcriptome profiling across a wide spectrum of bacterial species—such as Escherichia coli, Acinetobacter baumannii, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus aureus, Lactobacillus, and Clostridium difficile—but also extends its application to mixed bacterial samples. Unlike traditional methods such as bulk RNA-seq, which provide averaged data across samples, VITApilote MscRNA-seq offers single-cell resolution. This capability reveals the functional and phenotypic heterogeneity within mixed bacterial populations. By uncovering the intricate functional states and interations, researchers can unravel mechanisms of pathogenicity, identify cooperative or competitive behaviors, and understand how antibiotic resistance develops across different cells. Figure 1: VITA MscRNA-seq product…

Singapore, November 2024 - The VITA Single-Cell Transcriptome Platform, developed by M20 Genomics, has been a pioneer in enabling high-throughput, full-length transcriptome sequencing for single-cell research. With its proven capabilities across fresh, frozen, and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues, VITA Platform consistently meets the needs of researchers across various experimental settings. However, challenges arise in scenarios such as field collections, where immediate processing or freezing of tissue samples may not always be feasible, thus limiting the potential for single-cell sequencing. To overcome these obstacles, we are excited to introduce the VITA Fixed RNA, an RNA fixation reagent (Figure 1), designed for the direct fixation of tissue samples. This new product provides researchers with greater flexibility and broader sample handling options, tailored to accommodate diverse research needs and experimental conditions. By integrating the VITA platform with the VITA Fixed RNA reagent, researchers can confidently navigate the complexities of single-cell transcriptomics, irrespective of sample collection circumstances. Figure 1. VITA Fixed RNA reagent product view Expanding Research Possibilities with VITA Fixed RNA Reagent The VITA Fixed RNA reagent provides a robust method to stabilize tissue samples immediately after collection, preserving the integrity of cellular information until further analysis can be conducted. The following steps…

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death globally, claiming 17.9 million lives annually according to the WHO[1]. CVDs include coronary heart disease, cerebrovascular disease, rheumatic heart disease, and other heart and blood vessel disorders. Major risk factors include hypertension, high cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, and obesity. In the past decade, the gut microbiome—the complex environment of our intestines—has emerged as another significant factor in CVD pathogenesis. This microbial environment both responds to and influences cardiovascular risk factors, producing components that can impact the host's cardiovascular health in diverse ways  (Figure 1). Figure 1: Gut dysbiosis is linked to endogenous and exogenous risk factors, the latter related to several systemic inflammatory and metabolic conditions [2]. The Association of the Gut Microbiota Composition and CVDs The pivotal connection between the gut microbiome and cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been a focus of extensive research efforts. A recent study demonstrated that an elevated abundance of Streptococcus spp and other species typically found in the oral cavity is associated with coronary atherosclerosis and systemic inflammation markers (Figure 2)[3]. Figure 2: Associations between coronary artery calcium score–associated gut species and alternate measurements of atherosclerosis and markers of inflammation and infection [3]. Another study reported decreased…

Singapore, October 2024 - In life sciences research, complex diseases such as cancer, characterized by pronounced spatial heterogeneity within tissues, remain a central focus for spatial transcriptomics applications. Conventional spatial transcriptome platforms, however, typically require fresh-frozen samples and are constrained in their ability to analyze clinical samples like formalin-fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) tissue. Furthermore, these platforms primarily capture only mRNA, thus omitting the abundant non-coding RNAs present in the transcriptome. Such limitations restrict our capacity to fully understand disease mechanisms. To overcome these technical challenges, in October 2023, we launched M20 Spatial, the world’s first random-priming-based comprehensive spatial transcriptome technology, compatible with all sample types, including FFPE (https://www.m20genomics.com/1085.html ). M20 Spatial captures both mRNA and non-coding RNA, ushering in a new era of multi-species, whole-sample, full-transcriptome, and full-length sequence coverage. Last week, we announced a major upgrade to M20 Spatial, with significant enhancements in sensitivity, resolution, and analytical depth (https://www.m20genomics.com/3818.html). We further evaluate the upgraded M20 Spatial on clinical FFPE tumor samples, confirming its exceptional performance in clinical research and its valuable contributions to understanding tumor heterogeneity. Below, we present the latest data from paired FFPE samples of human breast cancer tissue and peritumoral tissue: High-Sensitivity Detection of Gene Expression…

Singapore, October 2024 - We are thrilled to announce the latest performance upgrade of M20 Genomics' M20 Spatial technology, a revolutionary spatial transcriptomics technology that offers comprehensive spatial transcriptomic data across multiple species and sample types. This upgrade significantly enhances the technology's sensitivity, resolution and data interrogation capabilities, providing researchers a more powerful tool to investigate spatial cell interactions and molecular mechanisms in both research and clinical applications. Unmatched Flexibility in Spatial Transcriptomics Unveiled in October 2023, the M20 Spatial stands as the world’s first technology for whole-sample spatial transcriptomics based on random priming (https://www.m20genomics.com/1085.html). This groundbreaking technology accommodates a wide range of sample types, including fresh, frozen, and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues. By harnessing random priming, M20 Spatial captures spatial RNA with unbiased full-length transcript coverage, empowering researchers to delve into complete transcriptomes across diverse species and tissue types. M20 Spatial Workflow Compared to traditional spatial transcriptomics technologies, M20 Spatial heralds a new era of innovation, achieving remarkable breakthroughs in applicable species, sample types, RNA capture methods, and comprehensive full-length transcript coverage. These advancements not only elevate the technology’s significance in research and clinical applications but also vastly expand the horizons of information and insights available through spatial transcriptomics…

Last week, we officially launched the Klebsiella Action Project (KAP), a global initiative designed to accelerate research on hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKp) ST23, a pathogen posing a growing public health threat worldwide. This initiative seeks to gather the global scientific community in a collaborative effort to explore the complex biological characteristics of hvKp ST23, specifically focusing on its resistance mechanisms and virulence factors. However, research on multidrug-resistant hvKp has long been constrained by traditional methods, which fail to offer a comprehensive understanding of resistance mechanisms and the associated functional heterogeneity. The KAP initiative seeks to overcome these limitations by leveraging the VITA single-cell transcriptomics platform, which delivers cutting-edge technology for studying multidrug-resistant hvKp. With its unprecedented resolution, VITA is instrumental in unraveling the complex dynamics of and reshaping the landscape of microbial research. Current Limitations in Research on hvKp Traditional methods such as bulk RNA-sequencing and culture-based techniques are commonly used to investigate microbial communities. However, these techniques present several significant limitations: Low Resolution: Traditional methods generally assess microbial populations at the community level, which overlooks the functional heterogeneity present within individual cells. This approach frequently fails to detect rare but significant events, such as the emergence of antibiotic resistance…

Recently, the World Health Organization (WHO) has sounded the alarm on the escalating global threat posed by hypervirulent Klebsiella pneumoniae (hvKp) sequence type (ST) 23, a pathogen now recognized as a serious public health threat due to its rapid spread and high mortality rates. In direct response, M20 Genomics is launching the Klebsiella Action Project (KAP), dedicated to accelerating research and innovation to combat this deadly bacterium. The Urgent Threat of hvKp ST23 Klebsiella pneumoniae is a typically harmless gram-negative bacterium residing human mucosal surfaces of the oropharynx and gastrointestinal (GI) tract. However, the emergence of the hypervirulent hvKp ST23 strain has transformed this microbe into a formidable pathogen capable of causing severe, life-threatening infections in even healthy individuals, including pneumonia, bloodstream infections, and meningitis. On July 31, 2024, the WHO report highlighted the global spread of hvKp ST23 carrying resistant genes to the carbapenem antibiotics across six WHO Regions. Countries including United States, United Kingdom, China, and France all have reported the existence of hvKp ST23. The strain's resistance to carbapenems, a last-line antibiotic, coupled with its rapid dissemination, particularly within healthcare settings, underscores its potential to trigger widespread outbreaks. The Rising Clinical Challenge Caused by hvKp The clinical…

Baltimore, MD, USA, August 2024 – M20 Genomics, a pioneer in cutting-edge single-cell and spatial transcriptomics, and Complete Omics, a leader in clinical proteomics and metabolomics, have joined forces in a strategic collaboration to drive innovations in single-cell multi-omics. This partnership aims to integrate cutting-edge technologies from both companies to revolutionize disease research and precision medicine. This collaboration unites M20 Genomics' innovative single-cell and spatial transcriptomics platforms with Complete Omics' leading proteomics and metabolomics technologies. By combining these powerful tools, the partnership will enable comprehensive multi-omics analysis at the single-cell level, providing researchers with unprecedented insights into cellular heterogeneity, tissue architecture, and disease mechanisms. This integration is expected to enhance the precision and application of multi-omics technologies in disease research and personalized medicine. Establishment of Joint Laboratory A key aspect of this collaboration is setting up a joint laboratory in Baltimore, Maryland, close to Johns Hopkins University. This lab will serve as a hub for developing and optimizing integrated single-cell multi-omics assays, merging M20 Genomics' single-cell and spatial transcriptomics expertise with Complete Omics' proteomics and metabolomics technologies. Both companies aim to create powerful tools for multi-omics research, enabling detailed mapping of gene, protein, and metabolite expression at the single-cell level.…

We are excited to announce a significant update to our VITAseer software, now featuring an advanced module designed for in-depth single-cell analysis of eukaryotic samples. This upgrade also introduces comprehensive single-cell lncRNA (long non-coding RNA) analysis capabilities, further enhancing the power and precision of research. The upgraded VITAseer is fully compatible with the extensive single-cell transcriptome data generated by VITA single-cell products, providing a more intuitive and efficient data analysis experience. Key enhancements include improved cell clustering, automated cell type annotation, functional analysis, and cell communication mapping. In addition, this latest version of VITAseer offers single-cell lncRNA analysis. LncRNAs, non-coding RNA molecules longer than 200 nucleotides, exert major influence on a diverse array of molecular mechanisms, including epigenetics, transcription factor regulation, and post-transcriptional processes. As integral components of complex molecular networks, lncRNAs are increasingly recognized as key players in a wide range of diseases. To deepen the understanding of lncRNA functions, we have introduced a first-of-its-kind analysis module specifically designed for single-cell mRNA and lncRNA analysis of eukaryotic samples. New Features of Upgraded VITAseer: 1. UMAP Visualization of Cell Clusters Using Both mRNAs and LncRNAs The upgraded VITAseer introduces a new UMAP visualization feature, allowing users to analyze cell clusters…

Los Angeles, CA – M20 Genomics is pleased to announce the installation of its VITA Single-Cell Full-Length Transcriptome Platform [Link] at the Genomics and Bioinformatics Technology Center (TCGB) [Link] at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). This collaboration significantly enhances the spectrum of tools available to local research teams, enabling transcriptomic profiling in various sample types and species with single-cell resolution.   VITA platform at the TCGB at the UCLA.   Revolutionizing Transcriptome Analysis with VITA at TCGB Utilizing M20 Genomics‘ innovative random primer-based M20 Seq technology, the VITA platform provides unparalleled sample coverage. It accommodates a wide range of sample types, including fresh, frozen, and FFPE samples. Its unique capabilities extend to a diverse array of biological species, from eukaryotes to bacteria, and it is particularly designed for processing complex microbial samples such as gut microbiota. This paves the way for novel insights in various research fields, from cancer research to microbiology. With the installation of the VITA Platform our technical experts have delivered extensive, in-depth training to the TCGB team. Covering every critical aspect of the workflow—from sample preparation to advanced data analysis—this extensive training ensures that the TCGB team is exceptionally equipped to leverage the full…

ASM Microbe 2024, held from June 13 to 17 in Atlanta, once again proved to be a cornerstone of the microbiology community, drawing together attendees from all fields of microbiology, eager to explore groundbreaking insights, pioneering technologies, and new collaborations and partnerships. The atmosphere at ASM Microbe 2024 was one of inspiration and innovation. Our team was honoured to present our cutting-edge VITA platform for single-cell transcriptome profiling in microbial samples to the global microbiology community. We engaged with numerous dedicated professionals, forging exciting collaborations that promise to shape the future of microbial research.   Our booth emerged as a hub of innovation, drawing in microbiologists eager to learn and explore the advanced capabilities of the VITA platform. Interactive demonstrations allowed visitors to experience the ease and efficiency of the VITA platform firsthand. Personal consultations provided attendees with tailored insights on how the VITA platform could enhance their research projects. M20 Genomics’ booth at ASM Microbe 2024 Pioneering Insights into the Microbial Universe with VITA The highlight of M20 Genomics’ participation was our Industry and Science Showcase, where our Vice President of Academic Affairs and Innovation, Dr. Qing Yan, highlighted VITA's outstanding capabilities in detail. Dr. Qing Yan, Vice President of…

In 1957, Francis Crick introduced the central dogma of molecular biology, stating that information flows from DNA to RNA to proteins [1-2]. This concept laid the foundation for understanding gene expression and regulation. Initially, the discovery that less than 2% of the human genome codes for proteins led to the rest being labeled as "junk DNA." However, much of this DNA is transcribed into non-coding RNAs. Among these, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are crucial regulators of gene expression.   LncRNAs: Crucial Regulators of Gene Expression LncRNAs, non-coding transcripts of more than 200 nucleotides, regulate gene expression by organizing chromatin, modifying histones, recruiting transcription factors, and stabilizing mRNA. Additionally, lncRNAs can influence gene expression in neighboring cells via extracellular vesicles (Figure 1). Figure 1: Mechanisms of lncRNAs in gene expression regulation [3]. LncRNAs influence various physiological processes, including development and immune responses. For instance, lncRNA TUNA is essential for neural differentiation in embryonic stem cells [4]. In the immune system, lncRNAs like lincRNA-Cox2 modulate immune cell differentiation, activation, and function [5]. Moreover, lncRNAs play crucial roles in disease development, such as cancer progression. HOTAIR, an oncogenic lncRNA, is overexpressed in various cancers, promoting metastasis, proliferation, invasion, and resistance to apoptosis [6].   The Current State and Frontiers of lncRNA Analysis Given…

World Digestive Health Day (WDHD), established by the World Gastroenterology Organisation (WGO), aims to raise awareness about the prevention, diagnosis, management, and treatment of digestive diseases. Each year, May 29th marks the beginning of a global campaign addressing a critical issue related to digestive health. This year's theme, "Your Digestive Health: Make It A Priority," underscores the vital importance of maintaining digestive wellness. Figure 1: WDHD 2024’ theme "Your Digestive Health: Make it A Priority". Digestive health is fundamental to overall well-being, encompassing nutrient absorption, hormone regulation, detoxification, and mental health. Fundamental to these vital functions is the digestive system, a network of various organs. In recent years, the gut microbiome has emerged as a critical component of this system. Often referred to as the "hidden organ," it plays a significant role in shaping digestive health.   The Gut Microbiome: A Central Player in Digestive Health A balanced gut microbiome, or symbiosis, is characterized by a diverse and stable microbial community. Conversely, an imbalanced gut microbiome, or dysbiosis, occurs when this microbial equilibrium is disrupted, often characterized by reduced microbial diversity and the overgrowth of harmful microbes. Dysbiosis of the gut microbiota is linked to a wide range of diseases, with…

M20 Genomics is thrilled to showcase its revolutionary single-cell RNA sequencing technologies at booth 1537 during ASM Microbe 2024. As pioneers in single-cell technologies, we're thrilled to showcase our latest innovations at this highly anticipated event, taking place from June 13 to 17, 2024, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. With thousands of scientists, researchers, and healthcare professionals converging at ASM Microbe, this event promises unparalleled opportunities to exchange groundbreaking ideas, engage with global leaders, and forge transformative connections within the scientific community. At M20 Genomics, we're excited to showcase our groundbreaking solutions revolutionizing microbiology by enabling the precise analysis of the complex heterogeneity within the microbial universe.      Highlights of M20 Genomics' Participation at ASM Microbe 2024: 1. Innovative Products: M20 Genomics is poised to present its groundbreaking VITA high-throughput single-cell transcriptome platform. This revolutionary technology enables comprehensive transcriptome profiling at the single-bacterialevel, providing unparalleled insights for the precise investigaton of functional and phenotypic heterogeneity across cultured bacteria and gut microbiota.   2. Industry and Science Showcase: Engage with M20 Genomics' expert during our informative Industry and Science Showcase on June 16 at 11:00 AM in Theater A at the Georgia World Congress Center. M20 Genomics will present compelling data and application…

Durham, NC – M20 Genomics is pleased to announce the installation of its VITA Single-Cell Full-Length Transcriptome Platform in our collaboration labs at Duke University School of Medicine, significantly enhancing the research tools available to local teams. This strategic partnership with our esteemed collaborating research groups substantially advances the scientific resources at Duke University School of Medicine, enabling precise transcriptomic profiling at the single-cell level and providing detailed insights into cellular mechanisms.     Fully operational VITA platform in on of our collaboration labs at Duke University School of Medicine.   Unlocking New Frontiers in Single-Cell Analysis with Enhanced Capabilities Following the successful deployment of the VITA platform, our technical team has provided comprehensive training for Duke researchers. This training encompassed experimental protocols, instrument and reagent usage, and proficiency in data analysis software, ensuring optimal utilization of the platform's advanced capabilities. The integration of the VITA platform further strengthens the research infrastructure at Duke University School of Medicine, facilitating single-cell transcriptomic profiling across diverse sample types.   Duke researcher conducting single-cell RNA sequencing with VITA platform.   Utilizing innovative random primer-based M20 Seq technology, the VITA platform offers unparalleled sample coverage. It accommodates a wide range of sample types, including fresh, frozen,…

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is transforming our comprehension of cellular mechanisms, and has become indispensable in clinical studies over the past decades [1-4]. However, the procurement of fresh samples, a commonly held requirement for most scRNA-Seq technologies, comes with significant challenges for clinical studies. Formalin-fixed and paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples, commonly used in clinical settings for long-term storage, have been largely incompatible with conventional single-cell transcriptome methods due to the extensive RNA cross-linking and fragmentation caused by the fixation process. As a result, the majority of single-cell technologies have been unable to effectively analyze FFPE samples, limiting researchers' ability to leverage the wealth of clinical specimens available for study. The recent development of the novel single-cell transcriptome technology M20 Seq, alongside the VITA single-cell transcriptome product series, which are compatible with FFPE samples, provides a groundbreaking solution. This significant advancement allows researchers to leverage existing clinical archives for biomedical research, expanding the scope of clinical studies and enhancing our understanding of disease mechanisms.   FFPE Samples: The Hidden Treasure FFPE samples have long served as a critical resource in clinical studies and diagnostics, widely collected and stored in clinical settings. Their long-term preservation capacity and widespread availability make them indispensable for retrospective and longitudinal studies…

The environment is essential for our health and well-being, providing essential resources such as clean air, water, and fertile soil, while sustaining the ecological balance. Since its inception in 1970, Earth Day has served as an annual reminder of our obligation to protect our planet and has mobilized global efforts to address environmental issues. This year's theme, 'Planet vs. Plastic,' casts a spotlight on one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our century. The forecast surge in plastic production, from 9.2 billion tons between 1950 and 2017 to 34 billion tons by 2050, underscores the magnitude of the challenge[1]. Plastic poses a significant environmental threat throughout its lifecycle, with its production alone accounting for 3.4% of global greenhouse gas emissions in 2019[2]. Additionally, the release of harmful additives from plastics, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, contaminates ecosystems and poses health risks. Once discarded, plastic waste persists for hundreds or thousands of years, accumulating in landfills and infiltrating ecosystems worldwide. The widespread use of plastics has led to a staggering increase in global annual plastic waste, doubling from 156 million tons in 2000 to 353 million tons in 2019. Projections indicate that this figure could triple by 2060…

Pathological research assays, including histological, IHC, and in situ genomics analyses, frequently utilize formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples. Biorepositories and pathology departments worldwide house millions of these samples, offering an extensive collection of readily available specimens for in-depth analysis. However, despite their prevalence, FFPE samples pose challenges due to molecular cross-linking and nucleic acid degradation during preservation. Single-cell RNA Sequencing (scRNA-seq) on clinical FFPE specimens promises breakthroughs in precision diagnostics, treatment strategies, and prognostic insights for human diseases. However, challenges persist in isolating intact cells or nuclei and capturing RNA from FFPE tissues. Until today, few commercial platforms are available that enable scRNA-seq in these precious but challenging samples. With the introduction of M20 VITA technology in August 2022, alongside our VITA product series, we've provided a solution to access the valuable information stored in these samples. Using random primers, M20 VITA overcomes the boundaries of  other scRNA-seq technologies that mostly rely on poly(A) tails for RNA capture. As these structures are prone to chemical modification and degradation, the capabilities to obtain quality data from FFPE samples using technologies based on poly(A) capture are limited. In parallel, 10x Genomics introduced the Chromium Single Cell Gene Expression Flex  (from here on called 10x…

In 1946, a historic gathering of 61 nations convened heralding to establish the World Health Organization (WHO), marking a pivotal moment in global health governance. Just two years later, the WHO officially came into existence on April 7th, 1948, marking a monumental leap in international efforts to combat global health challenges. Since 1950, April 7th has been recognized as World Health Day, serving as an annual reminder of our collective commitment to prioritize global health and tackling the most urgent health issues of our time. The theme for World Health Day 2024, "My Health, My Right," emphasizes the urgent need to ensure equitable access to healthcare for all individuals, irrespective of socio-economic background or geographic location. This powerful call to action urges us all to uphold and defense the right to health for every individual. As we strive to extend healthcare access to everyone, we're faced with the daunting challenge of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR)—one of the foremost threats to public health in the 21st century. A study published in The Lancet highlighted the devastating impact of AMR, with approximately 1.27 million deaths directly attributed to antimicrobial resistant infections in 2019, and an additional 4.95 million deaths indirectly linked to this phenomenon[1]. The WHO's predictive models suggest a worrisome scenario, forecasting that, fatalities…

In the rapidly evolving landscape of single-cell transcriptome analysis, precision and accuracy are paramount. Researchers worldwide are increasingly turning to innovative technologies to dissect the complex cellular landscape with unprecedented resolution. Among these advancements, M20 Genomics distinguishes itself with its pioneering VITA Single-Cell Full-Length Transcriptome Sequencing Platform. In August 2022, M20 Genomics unveiled M20 Seq along with the VITA Single-Cell Full-Length Transcriptome Sequencing Platform, redefining the boundaries of single-cell transcriptomics. The VITA platform offers unparalleled features, including comprehensive compatibility across various species and sample types, coupled with full transcriptome capture, thereby greatly expanding the scope of single-cell technology and enabling researchers to explore uncharted territories of cellular heterogeneity. Diverging from poly(A)-based single-cell transcriptome technologies, the VITA platform operates on the principle of random primers. While this unique approach enhances single-cell transcriptome analysis, it poses potential challenges in cell type annotation. The divergence from traditional poly(A)-based single-cell transcriptome necessitates optimized annotation tools tailored to the distinct characteristics of random primer-based single-cell transcriptome data.    Navigating Complexity: Equipped with VITA CytBase and VITA Biscuit To address this challenge, we have developed VITA CytBase, a database meticulously designed for precise annotation of cell types using data derived from the VITA platform. VITA CytBase offers a comprehensive suite of annotation capabilities…

Over the last two decades, the gut microbiome has emerged as a prominent research field, revealing its pivotal role in human physiology and its significant association with various diseases [1-3]. However, our understanding of the intricate functional mechanisms within the gut microbiome remains incomplete and current applied methodologies often rely on bulked analyses, offering only insights based on averaged data and lack sensitivity to detect nuanced dynamics and diverse functions present within complex microbial communities. In November 2023, we launched VITA GutMicrobiome, our pioneering single-bacterial transcriptome product designed for the gut microbiome. Our cutting-edge  solution enables accurate barcoding of each individual bacterium in gut microbiome samples, improving the efficiency and accuracy of  of bacterial transcriptome analysis by clearly identifying the cellular origin of each sequenced fragment and eliminating the need for culture processes. Moreover, the high-resolution data for single bacterial transcriptomes offer an advantage in resolving functional heterogeneity even within homogeneous populations, serving as a powerful analytical tool at the single-cell level. Here, we showcase the exceptional performance of our VITA GutMicrobiome product through single-bacteria transcriptome analysis on a fecal sample from a healthy human individual. Practical Application and Performance Assessment of VITA GutMicrobiome The workflow commenced with the preparation…

In March 2022, we proudly unveiled our innovative high-throughput single-bacterium RNA sequencing technology, MscRNA Seq (incooperated in M20 Seq) alongside the VITApilote High-Throughput Single-Bacterium Transcriptome Kit. Our groundbreaking advancement sparked a transformative shift in microbiological research towards single-bacterium transcriptomics. As scientific exploration in microbiology ventures into unknown territories with increased complexity and precision, particularly within the intricate realm of gut microbiota, we have committed to confronting emerging challenges and facilitating a deeper understanding of this vital microbial community. We are thrilled to present the latest addition to our VITA single-cell transcriptome product family - VITA GutMicrobiome (Figure 1). This product stands as the world's first high-throughput single-bacterium transcriptomic solution designed for gut microbiome studies, empowering researchers to gain comprehensive insights into the intricate world of gut microbiota. Figure 1. VITA GutMicrobiome product The introduction of VITA GutMicrobiome marks the addition of a powerful tool available to researchers studying the functionality of gut microbiota. By expanding the scope of analysis to the single-cell level, this breakthrough holds the potential to significantly advance comprehensive investigations in various fields, including gut microbiota functions, live biotherapeutic products, fecal microbiota transplantation, microbiota-drug interactions, and beyond.   The Current Status of Gut Microbiota Research The gut…

In August 2022, we proudly introduced M20 Seq®, our revolutionary single-cell sequencing technology based on random primers, setting a new standard in comprehensive transcriptome analysis. Accompanying this innovation was the launch of our VITA Single-Cell Full-Length Transcriptome Sequencing Platform, enabling the comprehensive exploration of whole transcriptomes across diverse sample types and species. Our dedication to scientific progress extends beyond existing technologies. Acknowledging the intricate multidimensional complexities of biological mechanisms, which span both the temporal and spatial scale, we are inspired to foster novel and comprehensive insights into their complex organization and regulation. This commitment fuels our continuous efforts to deliver innovative approaches that push the boundaries of current technologies, paving the way for pioneering discoveries that will shape the future of biomedicine. We are thrilled to present a groundbreaking advancement: 'M20 Spatial' – our revolutionary spatial whole transcriptome solution, powered by our random-primer technology. M20 Spatial marks a groundbreaking shift in spatial transcriptomics, expanding species applicability and sample type compatability, improving RNA capture efficiency, and enhancing sequence coverage. With M20 Spatial, we empower the scientific community to delve deeper into the spatial and temporal dimensions of cellular processes, driving advancements and leading discoveries at the forefront of biomedical research. Embrace…

In August 2022, M20 Genomics officially launched M20 Seq a groundbreaking single-cell sequencing technology based on random primers. The introduction of this cutting-edge technology signifies the onset of a new era in single-cell sequencing, extending beyond scientific research towards the prospect of future clinical applications. Leveraging the M20 Seq technology, M20 Genomics has simultaneously introduced the VITA series - a revolutionary high-throughput single-cell sequencing product line. With the capability for (ultra) high-throughput transcriptome sequencing across an extensive spectrum of samples, species, and full-length transcriptome capture, VITA significantly enhances detection sensitivity and broadly expands the application scope of single-cell technology.   A Glimpse into the Current Possibilities and Challenges of Single-Cell Technology With its capacity to dissect cellular heterogeneity within complex tissues, single-cell sequencing has surpassed the constraints of traditional bulk transcriptome sequencing. Widely adopted for cellular atlas construction, it is also gaining prominence in clinical research. Furthermore, its potential spans early disease detection, monitoring, and personalized medicine in fields like oncology, immunology, and neuroscience. Despite achieving technological breakthroughs in high-throughput and multi-omics approaches, challenges persist for single-cell sequencing technology. Issues such as low sensitivity and high costs pose critical barriers to the advancement of single-cell-related research. While most high-throughput single-cell…

In March 2022, M20 Genomics proudly launched MscRNA-seq (Microbial-single-cell RNA sequencing). This pioneering platform marks a significant leap as single-cell transcriptome sequencing technology enters the commercial stage within the field of microbial research. The availability of MscRNA-seq facilitates the transcendence of current technological constraints, enabling the comprehensive study of bacterial drug resistance and persistence mechanisms, pathogenicity, and intricate bacterial-host interactions.   The Current State of Single-Cell Sequencing Technology Single-cell sequencing technology has emerged as a powerful tool for detecting gene expression and other information at the level of individual cells. This innovation addresses a critical limitation in traditional research methodologies, where sequencing bulked samples from tissues or cell populations can mask the transcriptional heterogeneity between individual cells by averaging across a population. Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is emerging as one of the major public health problems of this century. In its 2014 Global Antimicrobial Resistance Report, the World Health Organization (WHO) disclosed that drug-resistant bacterial infections claimed over 700,000 lives globally within a single year. Predictive models suggest a worrisome scenario, projecting that by 2050, fatalities from antibiotic resistant bacterial infections could exceed 10 million per year, surpassing even the projected 8.2 million cancer-related deaths for the same period. The heterogeneity…