Single-cell RNA sequencing and spatial transcriptome analysis in bladder cancer: Current status and future...

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Genomics
• Biotechnology

Background:

• Bladder cancer is a common malignancy with unclear progression mechanisms and tumor microenvironment roles.
• Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) and spatial transcriptomics (ST) offer advanced tools for analyzing cellular heterogeneity and interactions in bladder diseases.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advancements in scRNA-seq and ST for bladder disease research.
• To highlight discoveries in bladder cancer molecular subtypes, treatment resistance, and gender-based differences.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature search for studies utilizing scRNA-seq and ST in bladder diseases.
• Analysis of findings related to cellular heterogeneity, gene expression, and cell-cell interactions.

Main Results:

• scRNA-seq and ST identified multiple molecular subtypes within bladder tumors.
• These technologies elucidated mechanisms of treatment resistance and gender-based molecular differences in bladder cancer.
• Significant discoveries deepen understanding of bladder disease pathology and potential biomarkers/therapeutic targets.

Conclusions:

• Integrating scRNA-seq and ST enhances understanding of tumor heterogeneity and the tumor microenvironment.
• These insights may drive personalized therapies and improved patient outcomes.
• Technical and access challenges must be overcome for clinical translation.