Single-Molecule Barcoding Technology for Single-Cell Genomics

However, most large-scale studies are focused on the generation of reference cell atlases, which prioritize this goal over cost-efficiency and logistics. For large-scale, multi-million-cell studies to be routine in fields such as clinical diagnostics, drug/target discovery, genetic screening, and gene therapy, it is crucial to simplify the single-cell workflow and the generation of barcoding reagents.

Here, we introduce AmpliDrop, a technology that streamlines single-cell barcoding by initiating the process using inexpensive single-copy barcodes, which are then amplified as part of the library preparation process, rather than relying on pre-synthesized multi-copy barcode pools. This strategy eliminates the need for barcoded beads and complex combinatorial indexing workflows. Additionally, cell compartmentalization is achieved using a conventional electronic pipette or a robotic liquid handler for automation, providing flexibility for any scale and number of samples.