Lucas Edelman, Founder and Chief Technology Officer of CS Genetics, introduced a new technology platform for single-cell analysis that is partition-free and operates in a solution phase, unlike traditional partition-based technologies. Edelman’s approach seeks to improve scalability and reduce costs.
He walked the audience through the key components of technology and the workflow details. The entire process is performed in standard laboratory plastic ware and involves normal liquid handling. The liquid handling stage did not involve a combinatorial split and feels like a bulk assay. Edelman described the operation as straightforward, with the ability to pause and freeze samples at certain points, providing flexibility in handling and timing.
There is a new type of indexing reagent which is a bead technology. Each cell and bead form cell bead pairs that are driven by the cell binding moiety. So, at the end of the process, some of the cells from the original sample will bind to the bead, capture rate is usually around 50%. Edelman noted that each bead carries millions of identical index sequences and binds directly to cell membranes.
Following this, then a specially formulated lysis and indexing buffer are added. This viscous solution restricts diffusion, enabling high-fidelity indexing without physical compartments. Next, Edelman suggested that by pausing to freeze cells before lysis, researchers can have more control over scheduling their experiments.
The technology has versatile applications and can work with various sample types including PBMCs, solid tissues, and cultured cells. Early customers have tested it out for large-scale experiments. These clients performed extensive benchmarking and found that Edelman’s system showed comparable biological insights to other leading single-cell platforms.
Finally, the technology was launched commercially last quarter, with kits available for different sample sizes. It is designed to be scalable and compatible with automation, making it suitable for both small-scale academic research and large-scale industrial applications.
