Simultaneous Visualization of Both Signaling Cascade Activity and End-Point Gene Expression in Single Cells
2011

Simultaneous Detection of Signaling Activity and Gene Expression in Single Cells

Sample size: 130 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Irene Weibrecht, Ida Nilsson, Mats Söderberg, Ola Soderberg

Primary Institution: Uppsala University

Hypothesis

Can we simultaneously detect individual protein modifications and mRNA molecules in single cells?

Conclusion

The developed method allows for the simultaneous detection of phosphorylated PDGFRβ and DUSP6 mRNA in single cells, revealing cell-to-cell variations.

Supporting Evidence

  • The method allows for the detection of individual molecules in fixed cells.
  • Cell-to-cell variations in signaling responses were observed.
  • The combined method can help in drug screening by pinpointing molecular effects.

Takeaway

The researchers created a new way to see how proteins and genes work together in single cells, helping us understand how cells respond differently to signals.

Methodology

The study combined in situ proximity ligation assay and padlock probes to detect protein modifications and mRNA in single cells.

Limitations

The combined detection method showed a decrease in signal detection efficiency compared to individual methods.

Participant Demographics

TERT immortalized human fibroblast (BJhTert) cells were used.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1371/journal.pone.0020148

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