The researchers have already deployed the technique, which works by capturing individual cells in tiny droplets, to study chromatin organization in mouse brain cells and in human tumors. In the long term, Droplet Hi-C could drive the discovery of new drug targets and help explain how cancer evolves to resist treatment. The technique may also have applications in clinical settings, where it could provide personalized insights into disease progression and treatment options.
The study, published October 18 in Nature Biotechnology, was led by Bing Ren, Ph.D., director of the C4E and a professor in the Department of Cellular & Molecular Medicine at UC San Diego School of Medicine.
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