Next-generation sequencing, single-cell RNA-seq and spatial transcriptomics

The Next-Generation Diagnostics Unit identifies and characterizes disease-associated nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) for their application as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets. The group has long-standing expertise in the field of experimental methods for high-throughput sequencing (Next-Generation Sequencing). Another focus is on PCR-based molecular biological analyses, as well as the optimal collection and preparation of examination material, e.g., from patient samples, animal models, or organoid and cell cultures.

High-throughput sequencing (Next-Generation Sequencing) is a technology used to determine the sequence of nucleotides in entire genomes or in specific regions of DNA or RNA. The rapid development of this technology, combined with significant cost reductions, has opened entirely new possibilities for nucleic acid analytics. For example, transcription patterns and surface molecules of thousands of cells can be resolved down to the single-cell level (scRNA-Seq, CITE-Seq) and simultaneously combined with imaging (Spatial Transcriptomics). These methods offer a wide range of applications in the Life Sciences. One example is the development and accompanying diagnostics of CAR therapies.