- CosMx™ Spatial Molecular Imager (SMI) is an advanced single-cell imaging technology developed by NanoString Technologies, designed for high-resolution spatial transcriptomics and proteomics.
- This cutting-edge platform is designed for single-cell imaging, providing high-plex in situ analysis of RNA and protein within formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) and fresh frozen (FF) tissue samples.
- This technology enables researchers to visualize and quantify up to 6,000 RNA and 64 validated protein analytes at cellular and subcellular resolution, making it an invaluable tool for cell atlasing, tissue phenotyping, cell-cell interactions, cellular processes, and biomarker discovery.
- It employs specialized probes and a sequential fluorescence imaging approach to capture spatial information about gene expression patterns. The technology can analyze both fresh-frozen and formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissue samples, making it compatible with standard clinical specimen preparation methods.
- The imaging process involves several key steps. First, tissue samples are prepared and labeled with specific probes targeting RNAs and proteins of interest. The system then performs automated, high-resolution imaging across the tissue section. Advanced optics and fluidics systems enable sequential rounds of hybridization and imaging, allowing for the detection of numerous targets. Sophisticated image processing algorithms combine these sequential images to create comprehensive molecular maps of the tissue.
- Data analysis is a crucial component of the CosMx SMI workflow. The platform generates rich datasets that include both spatial and molecular information at single-cell resolution. Advanced computational tools process this data to identify cell types, analyze expression patterns, and reveal spatial relationships between different cell populations. This analysis can uncover complex tissue architecture, cellular neighborhoods, and molecular interactions within the tissue microenvironment.
- The applications of CosMx SMI are particularly valuable in various research fields. In cancer research, it helps understand tumor heterogeneity, immune cell infiltration, and therapeutic response at the cellular level. In neuroscience, it enables detailed mapping of neural circuits and cell-type-specific gene expression patterns. The technology also has applications in developmental biology, immunology, and other fields where understanding spatial context is crucial.
- One of the key advantages of CosMx SMI is its ability to maintain spatial context while providing single-cell resolution data. This combination allows researchers to understand not just what genes are expressed, but where they are expressed within the tissue architecture. The high multiplexing capability enables comprehensive profiling of cellular states and interactions, providing a more complete picture of tissue biology.
- Technical considerations for using CosMx SMI include sample preparation quality, probe design, and data analysis complexity. Proper tissue handling and preservation are essential for optimal results. The system requires careful experimental design to select appropriate targets and optimize detection conditions. The large datasets generated necessitate substantial computational resources and expertise for analysis.
- Recent developments in the platform continue to expand its capabilities. These include increased multiplexing capacity, improved sensitivity, and enhanced analysis tools. Integration with other spatial biology technologies and single-cell analysis methods provides complementary approaches for comprehensive tissue analysis. The technology continues to evolve, offering new possibilities for understanding complex biological systems.
