The development of an easy-access research kit for high-throughput multiplexed epigenetic profiling in single cells

This project focuses on developing a prototype research kit that makes single-cell epigenetic analysis accessible, affordable, and scalable for academic and medical research. Based on a technology originally developed at the Hubrecht Institute and further optimized by sCellgen for higher throughput and usability, the kit will enable multiplexed detection of six epigenetic modifications across thousands of individual cells.

Epigenetic modifications regulate gene activity and determine cell identity, even though all cells share the same genetic material. Understanding these modifications is essential for uncovering how cells function in both healthy and diseased states. Currently, no commercial method exists that allows for high-throughput, multiplexed epigenetic profiling at single-cell resolution.

The proposed kit uses a three-day protocol that requires only basic lab skills and no specialized equipment, making it broadly implementable. It will be validated by the Hubrecht Institute using rhabdoid tumor-derived organoid tissues, ensuring its performance in cancer-relevant settings. Feedback from these evaluations will be used by sCellgen to refine and optimize the protocol.The commercialization of this technology has strong potential: it could create 200 jobs and generate $40 million in annual revenue within five years. More importantly, it will provide researchers worldwide with a powerful new tool for studying cell regulation, development, disease progression, and early diagnosis.

Through this collaboration between sCellgen and the Hubrecht Institute, the project will deliver a fully optimized and tested research kit, paving the way for broad adoption of single-cell epigenetic profiling technology in diverse laboratory environments.