#United States #Pleasanton #10x Genomics #A*STAR GIS #TISHUMAP

10x Genomics and ASTAR GIS Launch TISHUMAP Study

In an exciting development for cancer research, 10x Genomics, a frontrunner in single-cell and spatial biology, has partnered with the ASTAR Genome Institute of Singapore (ASTAR GIS) to embark on a groundbreaking initiative called the Target Inference from Spatialomics Histology Using Multimodal AI Phenotypes (TISHUMAP) project. Announced on July 17, 2025, this collaboration aims to push the boundaries of drug target discovery in the realms of cancer and inflammatory diseases through the utilization of advanced artificial intelligence (AI).

The Ambitious Goals of TISHUMAP

The TISHUMAP study is set to analyze an impressive collection of clinical tissue samples. Specifically, researchers will examine up to 2,500 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples extracted from various cancers, including gastric, liver, and colorectal cancers. By leveraging the state-of-the-art Xenium platform developed by 10x Genomics, this project aspires to visualize gene activity at the cellular level without the need to disrupt the tissue's structure, which is a traditional limitation in biological research.

This innovative technique will provide researchers with a detailed and precise molecular map, illustrating cellular positions, interactions, and functionalities within their natural biological environments. The integration of AI technology will empower researchers to swiftly identify critical patterns from vast datasets, thereby exponentially enhancing the discovery of novel biomarkers and therapeutic targets essential for developing new diagnostics and personalized treatment strategies for patients.

Quotes from Researchers

Dr. Shyam Prabhakar, Associate Director of Spatial and Single Cell Systems at ASTAR GIS, expressed his enthusiasm regarding the collaboration, stating, "We are excited to partner with 10x Genomics on TISHUMAP, a transformative initiative in large-scale spatial omics for drug target discovery. This partnership builds on ASTAR GIS's leading role in translational genomics in Asia and highlights 10x Genomics' commitment to advancing human health through spatial and single-cell innovations. Together, we are laying the groundwork for new diagnostics and more effective therapies for various cancers and precancerous conditions."

Serge Saxonov, the CEO of 10x Genomics, also shared his vision of the project, stating, "With Xenium, we are uncovering how biology functions at a subcellular level, shedding light on the mechanisms behind health and disease. By providing transformative spatial biology tools, we empower scientists worldwide to explore previously unanswerable questions and make significant discoveries in the field. Spatial biology combined with advanced AI is the gateway to the future of precision medicine, and we are thrilled to partner with ASTAR GIS to expedite the development of new diagnostics and therapies."

Methodology and Collaboration

The TISHUMAP collaboration will encompass both data generation and analysis phases, featuring specially tailored gene panels aimed at addressing specific research inquiries. Intelligent software pipelines will manage the large datasets efficiently, ensuring smooth workflows for laboratories involved in the research. Emphasizing their commitment to innovation, ASTAR GIS and 10x Genomics aim to streamline laboratory processes while developing advanced tools that facilitate sample preparation, image capturing, and spatial biology data analysis.

Through co-development of custom gene panels and sophisticated software systems, this collaboration is anticipated to handle the extensive datasets that will emerge from this cutting-edge research effort.

About the Organizations

10x Genomics is a life science technology company dedicated to advancing the understanding of biology and human health. Offering integrated solutions that consist of instruments, consumables, and software for single-cell and spatial biology, their products are instrumental in breakthroughs across numerous fields, such as oncology and immunology.

The ASTAR Genome Institute of Singapore* aims to propel significant advances in human health through genomic sciences. Established as a center for genomic innovation, ASTAR GIS focuses on merging technology with biological research to create impactful societal benefits.

For further information on 10x Genomics, please visit 10xgenomics.com. To learn more about A*STAR GIS, please go to a-star.edu.sg/gis.

As this exciting partnership unfolds, the global scientific community eagerly anticipates the innovative breakthroughs that the TISHUMAP study may unveil in the quest for effective cancer therapies and advanced precision medicine.