Single‐cell RNA sequencing: A new opportunity for retinal research. (22nd March 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: You, Mengling; Rong, Rong; Zeng, Zhou; Li, Haibo; Xia, Xiaobo; Ji, Dan
• Is Part Of: Wiley interdisciplinary reviews. Volume 12:Number 5(2021)
• Page Start: n/a
• Page End: n/a
• Publication Date: 2021-03-22
• Subjects: data analysis -- retina development -- retina disease -- retina neuron -- single‐cell RNA sequencing; RNA -- Periodicals; 572.8805
• DOI: 10.1002/wrna.1652
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1757-7004

Abstract

Abstract: Single‐cell RNA sequencing (scRNA‐seq) is a technology for single‐cell transcriptome analysis that can be used to characterize complex dynamics of various retinal cell types. It provides deep scrutiny into the gene expression character of diverse cell types, lending insight into all the biological processes being carried out. The scRNA‐seq is an alternative to regular RNA‐seq, which does not achieve cellular heterogeneity. The retina, is a part of the central nervous system (CNS) and consists of six types of neurons and several types of glial cells. Studying retinal cell heterogeneity is important for understanding retinal diseases. Currently, scRNA‐seq is employed to assess retina development and retinal disease pathogenesis and has improved our understanding of the relationship between the retina, its visual pathways, and the brain. Moreover, this technology provides new ideas on the sensitivity and molecular mechanisms of cell subtypes involved in retinal‐related diseases. The application of scRNA‐seq technology has given us a deeper understanding of the latest advancements and challenges in retinal development and diseases. We advocate scRNA‐seq as one of the important tools for developing novel therapies for retinal diseases. This article is categorized under: RNA Methods > RNA Analyses in Cells RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Development RNA in Disease and Development > RNA in Disease Abstract : After single‐cell RNA sequencing of samples, different analysis schemes are adopted for different research directions. This article focuses on the development of the retina, the study of retinal subtypes, and the exploration of the mechanisms of retinal diseases.