Concepts and Applications of Single-Cell Analysis

Single-cell analysis (SCA) refers to the study of metabolomics, transcriptomics, cell-cell interactions, genomics and proteomics at the single cell level. Various SCA techniques require isolation of individual cells. Currently, several methods are utilized for single cell isolation, such as laser capture microdissection, serial dilution, FACS, micromanipulation, dielectrophoretic digital sorting, and Raman tweezers. Laser capture microdissection involves the isolation of specific cells by performing a dissection at the microscopic scale using a laser. SCA is a powerful tool for understanding biological heterogeneity and thereby facilitating therapeutic decisions. It is applied in melanoma, brain cancer, breast cancer, acute myeloid leukemia, and colon cancer. Furthermore, it has applications in various fields, such as embryogenesis, immunology, plant biology, microbiology, and prenatal diagnosis. This book unravels the recent studies in the field of single-cell analysis. It is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area of study as well as for experts.