A*STAR’s Genome Institute of Singapore, NanoString, and Next Level Genomics Establish Joint Lab for Spatial Genomics Research
A*STAR’s Genome Institute of Singapore (GIS), NanoString Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: NSTG), and Next Level Genomics (NLG) have come together to create a new spatial genomics joint laboratory in Singapore. The collaborative initiative, known as the SpACE-Dx lab (Spatial Atlas of Clinical Evolution of Disease), aims to harness the power of spatial biology to identify biomarkers that can predict disease progression and treatment responses, with a primary focus on cancer research.
Situated within A*STAR’s GIS facility, the SpACE-Dx lab will be accessible to the local research community. Its overarching goal is to encourage collaboration and expedite progress in the field of spatial genomics research. A*STAR’s GIS contributes its advanced scientific infrastructure and expertise in genomics research, sequencing technologies, data analytics, and spatial omics, with a particular emphasis on translational cancer biology, infectious diseases, and neurobiology. NLG, a leading provider of next-generation sequencing services specializing in long-read technologies, will lend its laboratory proficiency in spatial genomics, utilizing NanoString GeoMx Digital Spatial Profiler to assist researchers in applying state-of-the-art spatial technology to their ongoing research endeavors. NanoString’s technology allows researchers to measure the multi-modal expression of genes and proteins within the natural context of tissue structure. This includes studying diseased cells, such as cancer cells, and the surrounding microenvironment, encompassing stromal and immune cells. The platform also allows scientists to decipher how cells evolve and interact during the development and progression of diseases.
Dr. Ramanuj DasGupta, Senior Group Leader at A*STAR’s GIS, who is spearheading the establishment of the SpACE-Dx joint laboratory, expressed excitement about the partnership and its potential for translating significant discoveries into clinical applications. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in advancing research, improving healthcare, and ultimately benefiting patients worldwide.