Nuclei on the Rise: When Nuclei-Based Methods Meet Next-Generation Sequencing

Abstract

In the last decade, we have witnessed an upsurge in nuclei-based studies, particularly coupled with next-generation sequencing. Such studies aim at understanding the molecular states that exist in heterogeneous cell populations by applying increasingly more affordable sequencing approaches, in addition to optimized methodologies developed to isolate and select nuclei. Although these powerful new methods promise unprecedented insights, it is important to understand and critically consider the associated challenges. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the rise of nuclei-based studies and elaborate on their advantages and disadvantages, with a specific focus on their utility for transcriptomic sequencing analyses. Improved designs and appropriate use of the various experimental strategies will result in acquiring biologically accurate and meaningful information.

Keywords

• nuclei isolation
• next-generation sequencing
• cell-type-specific isolation
• epigenetics
• transcriptomics
• single-cell sequencing