# DNA-optical barcoding technology for spatiotemporal single-cell analysis

> **NIH NIH R44** · LASE INNOVATION INC. · 2024 · $239,680

## Abstract

Abstract
Combining live imaging with single-cell sequencing is a powerful approach for gaining comprehensive
understanding of individual cell behaviors within complex biological systems. However, existing
approaches are limited in throughput, rely on computational data alignments that are prone to bias, or
require analysis of isolated cells. The goal of this Fast-Track SBIR application is to develop a novel cellular
barcoding technology that will enable researchers to conduct both standard live-cell imaging and high-
throughput single-cell sequencing, and then align the two sets of data unambiguously according to the cell
barcodes. The proposed approach uses dual-barcoded laser particles (LPs) with unique pairs of optical
emission spectra and oligonucleotide sequences. These barcodes can be identified either optically during
imaging or by single-cell sequencing. Built on promising preliminary data, Phase I of this project aims to
demonstrate the feasibility of dual-barcoded LPs on a small scale. Upon success of Phase I, Phase II will
streamline and scale up the fabrication of the LPs and test and validate the technology towards
commercialization. The optical barcode readout requires a high-resolution spectrometer and a pump laser.
In Phase II, add-on hardware modules and cell-tracking software will be developed and tested to be
compatible with existing commercial microscopes, making it easier for researchers to adopt the technology.
Additionally, Phase II research aims to demonstrate the usefulness of imaging-sequencing data via a pilot
study of cancer cells. Furthermore, potential risks and solutions for the technology will be explored,
including the long-term effects of LPs on cell gene expression patterns. Overall, the outcome of this Fast-
Track project will be significant technological advancements to the field of single-cell analysis for both basic
research and drug discovery.

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10822207
- **Project number:** 1R44HG013591-01
- **Recipient organization:** LASE INNOVATION INC.
- **Principal Investigator:** Sheldon J.J. Kwok
- **Activity code:** R44 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2024
- **Award amount:** $239,680
- **Award type:** 1
- **Project period:** 2024-02-20 → 2024-10-19

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10822207

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10822207, DNA-optical barcoding technology for spatiotemporal single-cell analysis (1R44HG013591-01). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-23 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10822207. Licensed CC0.

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