10x Genomics, Inc. and the A*STAR Genome Institute of Singapore have launched a major research collaboration that could transform cancer drug discovery through artificial intelligence and advanced spatial biology. The Target Inference from Spatialomics & Histology Using Multimodal AI & Phenotypes (TISHUMAP) project represents one of the largest spatial omics studies to date, with plans to analyze up to 2,500 clinical tissue samples.
The collaboration will focus on gastric, liver, and colorectal cancers, utilizing 10x Genomics' Xenium platform to generate comprehensive molecular maps of tumor tissues. Unlike traditional methods that require tissues to be broken down, the Xenium platform enables researchers to visualize gene activity directly within individual cells in intact tissues, providing unprecedented insight into how cells are positioned, interact, and function within their natural biological context.
Revolutionary Spatial Biology Approach
The TISHUMAP study will analyze formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) clinical tissue samples, creating precise molecular-level maps that illustrate cellular positioning and interactions. When combined with advanced AI, this approach allows researchers to detect critical patterns across large datasets swiftly, significantly advancing the identification of novel biomarkers and drug targets.
"We are excited to partner with 10x Genomics on TISHUMAP, a transformative initiative in large-scale spatial omics for drug target discovery," said Dr. Shyam Prabhakar, Associate Director, Spatial and Single Cell Systems at ASTAR GIS. "TISHUMAP builds on ASTAR GIS' leading role in translational genomics in Asia and 10x Genomics' commitment to advancing human health through spatial and single cell innovations."
Comprehensive Technology Integration
The collaboration spans both data generation and analysis stages, including the development of tailored gene panels designed for specific research questions and intelligent software pipelines for efficient management of large datasets. A*STAR GIS and 10x Genomics will work together to streamline laboratory workflows and build advanced tools that simplify how scientists prepare samples, capture images, and analyze spatial biology data.
The partnership will also involve co-developing custom gene panels and smart software pipelines designed to handle the massive datasets generated by this cutting-edge research. This comprehensive approach aims to accelerate the path from discovery to clinical application.
Precision Medicine Applications
The ultimate goal of TISHUMAP is to pave the way for the development of new diagnostics and personalized treatment plans for patients with cancer and inflammatory diseases. By combining spatial biology with AI analysis, researchers hope to uncover previously hidden patterns in tumor biology that could lead to more effective therapeutic interventions.
"With Xenium, we are uncovering how biology works at subcellular resolution, revealing the underlying mechanisms of health and disease," said Serge Saxonov, CEO of 10x Genomics. "By delivering accessible and transformative spatial biology, Xenium empowers scientists everywhere to ask bigger questions and unlock discoveries that were previously out of reach."
Strategic Partnership Impact
The collaboration leverages ASTAR GIS' established expertise in translational genomics across Asia and 10x Genomics' technological leadership in single cell and spatial biology. ASTAR GIS, established in 2000 as a center for genomic discovery, pursues the integration of technology, genetics, and biology toward academic, economic, and societal impact.
The partnership represents a significant investment in precision medicine research, with both organizations committed to building the foundation for new diagnostics and more effective therapies for various cancers and precancerous conditions. The study's focus on Asian populations may provide valuable insights into cancer biology and treatment responses in this demographic.
Saxonov emphasized that "spatial biology and advanced AI is the future of precision medicine," highlighting the transformative potential of combining these technologies to accelerate the development of new diagnostics and therapies.
