Issue 10, 2016

Cellular identity at the single-cell level

Abstract

A single cell creates surprising heterogeneity in a multicellular organism. While every organismal cell shares almost an identical genome, molecular interactions in cells alter the use of DNA sequences to modulate the gene of interest for specialization of cellular functions. Each cell gains a unique identity through molecular coding across the DNA, RNA, and protein conversions. On the other hand, loss of cellular identity leads to critical diseases such as cancer. Most cell identity dissection studies are based on bulk molecular assays that mask differences in individual cells. To probe cell-to-cell variability in a population, we discuss single cell approaches to decode the genetic, epigenetic, transcriptional, and translational mechanisms for cell identity formation. In combination with molecular instructions, the physical principles behind cell identity determination are examined. Deciphering and reprogramming cellular types impact biology and medicine.

Graphical abstract: Cellular identity at the single-cell level

Article information

Article type
Review Article
Submitted
18 May 2016
Accepted
18 Jul 2016
First published
19 Jul 2016

Mol. BioSyst., 2016,12, 2965-2979

Cellular identity at the single-cell level

A. F. Coskun, U. Eser and S. Islam, Mol. BioSyst., 2016, 12, 2965 DOI: 10.1039/C6MB00388E

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