Click Chemistry-Based DNA Labeling of Cells for Barcoding Applications

Area of Science:

• Molecular Biology
• Cell Biology
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Current cell labeling and tracking methods face limitations in high-throughput and multiplexed applications.
• Existing techniques struggle to capture the complexity and heterogeneity of biological systems.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel cell labeling and tracking methodology using double-stranded DNA barcodes.
• To enable multiplexed identification, quantification, and sorting of cells for advanced biological research.

Main Methods:

• Cells were labeled with double-stranded DNA barcodes introduced to the cell membrane.
• Identification and quantification were performed using flow cytometry and PCR-based methods.
• Orthogonal barcode sequences were designed for multiplexed tracking and enrichment.

Main Results:

• Demonstrated successful labeling, tracking, and quantification of cells using DNA barcodes.
• Showcased compatibility with flow cytometry and PCR for cell identification.
• Achieved sorting and enrichment of barcoded cells from bulk populations.
• Illustrated the utility of orthogonal barcodes for tracking multiple cell types or treatments.

Conclusions:

• This DNA barcoding approach offers a versatile tool for cell labeling and tracking.
• The method supports high-throughput in vitro and in vivo applications.
• Enables the tracking of multiple cell populations within pooled samples.