Spatial analysis by current multiplexed imaging technologies for the molecular characterisation of cancer tissues

Tumours are composed of tumour cells and the surrounding tumour microenvironment (TME), and the molecular characterisation of the various elements of the TME and their interactions is essential for elucidating the mechanisms of tumour progression and developing better therapeutic strategies. Multiplex imaging is a technique that can quantify the expression of multiple protein markers on the same tissue section while maintaining spatial positioning, and this method has been rapidly developed in cancer research in recent years. Many multiplex imaging technologies and spatial analysis methods are emerging, and the elucidation of their principles and features is essential. In this review, we provide an overview of the latest multiplex imaging techniques by type of imaging and staining method and an introduction to image analysis methods, primarily focusing on spatial cellular properties, providing deeper insight into tumour organisation and spatial molecular biology in the TME.