What's Happening?
Researchers at Peking University, led by Chunhong Zheng and Yanyi Huang, have developed a new method called 'profiling of RNA in situ through single-round imaging' (PRISM). This technique utilizes multiplex fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) to
distinguish dozens of RNA transcript species in a single imaging round using a standard fluorescence microscope. The primary challenge addressed by the researchers was designing a codebook capable of resolving multiple barcodes within a single imaging round using only four channels. The method involves a spectral barcoding scheme where targeted gene transcripts are assigned unique barcodes on padlock probes. Each barcode segment corresponds to a specific spectral channel and can accommodate various sequences, allowing for multiple unique segment sequences per channel.
Why It's Important?
The development of the PRISM method represents a significant advancement in the field of RNA imaging. By enabling the simultaneous identification of multiple RNA transcripts, this technique could enhance the understanding of gene expression and regulation. This has potential implications for various fields, including developmental biology, cancer research, and personalized medicine. The ability to use a standard fluorescence microscope makes this method more accessible and cost-effective, potentially accelerating research and discovery in laboratories that may not have access to more advanced imaging technologies.
