Single-Cell Omics

What is Single-Cell Omics?

Advances in instrumentation, biochemical techniques, and computational technologies have accelerated the adoption of single-cell analysis across a wide range of research fields, including cancer biology, immunology, and microbiology. Single-cell omics refers to the comprehensive study of individual cells by analyzing molecular information such as DNA, RNA, and proteins, enabling researchers to uncover cellular differences that are often masked in bulk analysis. While single-cell RNA sequencing remains one of the most established approaches, emerging technologies in single-cell genomics, proteomics, and multiomics are expanding the ability to characterize cells at unprecedented resolution.

To enable routine, high-throughput single-cell analysis, researchers require robust and adaptable instrumentation capable of supporting diverse workflows. Our open and automated platform is designed to support a broad range of plate-based single-cell applications, including single-cell RNA sequencing, genome sequencing, proteomics, and next-generation multiomic assays.

Image-Based Cell Isolation

Our single-cell dispensing technology enables label-free cell isolation based on imaging. In addition, cells can be sorted based on fluorescent markers to exclude dead cells or target subpopulations. The cell isolation process is documented by a series of images that provide proof of successful single-cell isolation and insight into cell morphology such as size, roundness or fluorescent intensity. These parameters can be directly linked to the library size or the sequencing data.

NGS Library Preparation

Automated liquid handling enables more efficient and reproducible single-cell library preparation by reducing hands-on time and operator variability. As workflows scale in complexity, miniaturized reagent dispensing helps lower costs and conserve valuable samples and reagents. The I.DOT noncontact liquid handling platform supports these needs by dispensing nanoliter volumes (8–50 nL) with precision, enabling miniaturized workflows across a range of single-cell omics applications while reducing waste and cross-contamination risks.

From library normalization to indexing and barcoding, the I.DOT accelerates complex workflows through high-throughput parallel dispensing. Hundreds of libraries can be processed in minutes, with up to 96 reagents dispensed simultaneously and up to 2,304 libraries uniquely barcoded from a single source plate.

Library Indexing and Early Barcoding

The ability to index NGS libraries with unique DNA barcodes provides the basis for high-throughput single-cell sequencing. For single-cell full-length transcript sequencing or whole exome sequencing, individual libraries are usually indexed after amplification and fragmentation. Other RNA-seq protocols, such as CEL-Seq2, make use of early barcoding and pooling of single cells, requiring the addition of hundreds of barcoded primers before reverse transcription. Any cross contamination between barcode primers must be avoided, since it would make proper demultiplexing impossible.