A user's perspective on GeoMx^TM digital spatial profiling

Characterization of spatial protein expression for multiple targets from a single tissue is difficult to perform, especially due to the limitations of multiplex immunohistochemistry and tissue heterogeneity. Therefore, a new technology is required that permits detailed and simultaneous expression profiling of proteins within a defined region of interest (ROI). To address this unmet need, NanoString Technologies developed a new technology, GeoMx^TM digital spatial profiling (DSP), which currently enables simultaneous and guided detection of up to 40 antibodies (probes) from a single formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue. DSP probes are tagged with unique photocleavable DNA oligos that are released after guided ultraviolet exposure in specific ROIs. Digital quantification of the released oligos by NanoString's nCounter® system provides a detailed expression profile of proteins within these discrete ROIs. In this article, we will describe our experience with the GeoMx DSP platform using cancer FFPE tissues. These expression profiles will provide better characterization and understanding of tumor heterogeneity and the tumor micro-environment, enabling the improvement of patient therapy and the identification of potential biomarker signatures. The purpose of this article is to offer potential future users an independent insight into the DSP platform and a comprehensive idea of usability, including advantages and current limitations of the technology based on our current experience with the beta version of NanoString's DSP platform as part of the DSP beta-testing program. The GeoMx^TM Digital Spatial Profiling (DSP) platform is a non-destructive technique for regional in-depth protein expression profiling. Using oligonucleotide detection technologies, the GeoMx^TM DSP enables simultaneous high-level multiplexing on a single FFPE tissue. Here, we focus on our current experience derived from our biomarker research using the beta version of the DSP instrument.