# Laser particles for multi-dimensional single-cell analysis

> **NIH NIH R01** · MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL · 2021 · $735,306

## Abstract

Project Summary
The broad objective of this proposed work is to advance single-cell analysis by introducing novel cell-barcoding
technologies. Understanding cells is a cornerstone of life sciences. Single-cell sequencing led to a paradigm
shift in our approach to analyze cells from ensembles to individual cells. Unfortunately, the current single-cell
analysis techniques are almost exclusively static, performed ex vivo, and thus cannot easily probe the dynamic
cellular processes. Beyond static analysis, the next important step is to add more dimensions: everything that
makes a cell a living entity, including temporal changes, spatial movement, interactions with other cells in vivo.
This project will develop laser particles (LPs), which can be read optically in real time and repeatedly as
needed, for multi-dimensional single-cell analysis. With the optical barcode, it is possible to acquire data from a
cell at different times, locations and apparatuses, and compile the data to produce a full account of the cell. A
combination of LPs with oligonucleotide barcodes enables a breakthrough approach acquiring large-scale data
from in vivo physiology to molecular omics using multiple instruments in series. This project is organized in
three specific aims. Aim 1 develops large-scale LP barcodes combined with oligo barcodes. Aim 2 constructs
several instruments integrating LP barcode readers into commercial platforms. Aim 3 involves validation
studies to demonstrate the immediate utilities of the new technologies. The optical barcoding is expected to
make a paradigm change in single-cell analysis. This will transform the way multi-dimensional single-cell
analysis is used for scientific discovery and diagnostic and therapeutic applications in healthcare.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10272893
- **Project number:** 1R01EB033155-01
- **Recipient organization:** MASSACHUSETTS GENERAL HOSPITAL
- **Principal Investigator:** Seok-Hyun Andy Yun
- **Activity code:** R01 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $735,306
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2021-09-30 → 2026-06-30

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10272893

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10272893, Laser particles for multi-dimensional single-cell analysis (1R01EB033155-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10272893. Licensed CC0.

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