Unveiling novel insights in prostate cancer through single-cell RNA sequencing

Abstract

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is a cutting-edge technology that provides insights at the individual cell level. In contrast to traditional bulk RNA-seq, which captures gene expression at an average level and may overlook important details, scRNA-seq examines each individual cell as a fundamental unit and is particularly well-suited for identifying rare cell populations. Analogous to a microscope that distinguishes various cell types within a tissue sample, scRNA-seq unravels the heterogeneity and diversity within a single cell species, offering great potential as a leading sequencing method in the future. In the context of prostate cancer (PCa), a disease characterized by significant heterogeneity and multiple stages of progression, scRNA-seq emerges as a powerful tool for uncovering its intricate secrets.

Keywords: ScRNA-seq; cell interactions; prostate cancer; tumor heterogeneity; tumor microenvironment.

Figure 1

Cell Subtypes, Interactions, and Development Trajectory Revealed by ScRNA-seq in Prostate Cancer. Representative subgroups within Epithelial cells, Stromal cells, T cells, and Tumor Associated Macrophages (TAMs) were delineated. Cellular trajectories were depicted through one-way arrays, while interactions were visualized using two-way arrays. scRNA-seq has proven instrumental in identifying less prevalent cell subtypes and enhancing our understanding of cellular communication and lineage connections within prostate cancer.