Molecular Systems Biology (Aug 2021)

RNA velocity—current challenges and future perspectives

  • Volker Bergen,
  • Ruslan A Soldatov,
  • Peter V Kharchenko,
  • Fabian J Theis

DOI
https://doi.org/10.15252/msb.202110282
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 17, no. 8
pp. n/a – n/a

Abstract

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Abstract RNA velocity has enabled the recovery of directed dynamic information from single‐cell transcriptomics by connecting measurements to the underlying kinetics of gene expression. This approach has opened up new ways of studying cellular dynamics. Here, we review the current state of RNA velocity modeling approaches, discuss various examples illustrating limitations and potential pitfalls, and provide guidance on how the ensuing challenges may be addressed. We then outline future directions on how to generalize the concept of RNA velocity to a wider variety of biological systems and modalities.

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