We propose establishing a Single-Cell Genomics (SCG) Core Facility at Texas Tech University (TTU) to revolutionize cancer research in West Texas. Under the leadership of Dr. Yehia Mechref, a prominent cancer researcher and director of TTU’s Center for Biotechnology and Genomics (CBG), this facility will provide advanced tools to unravel the complexities of cancer biology. Cancer is a highly complex disease involving various cell types, including cancer cells, immune cells, blood vessel cells, and fibroblasts that support the tumor. These cells interact in ways that influence tumor growth, metastasis, and response to therapies. Traditional tumor analysis averages signals from millions of cell...
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We propose establishing a Single-Cell Genomics (SCG) Core Facility at Texas Tech University (TTU) to revolutionize cancer research in West Texas. Under the leadership of Dr. Yehia Mechref, a prominent cancer researcher and director of TTU’s Center for Biotechnology and Genomics (CBG), this facility will provide advanced tools to unravel the complexities of cancer biology. Cancer is a highly complex disease involving various cell types, including cancer cells, immune cells, blood vessel cells, and fibroblasts that support the tumor. These cells interact in ways that influence tumor growth, metastasis, and response to therapies. Traditional tumor analysis averages signals from millions of cells, masking the unique contributions of rare but critical cells, limiting our ability to fully understand the disease. Single-cell genomics addresses this limitation by analyzing individual cells within a tumor. This approach reveals cellular diversity and interactions, offering insights into why some cells resist treatment, how the tumor microenvironment supports cancer, and the mechanisms of metastasis. Integrating multi-omics techniques, including protein, DNA, and metabolic analyses, will provide a comprehensive picture of cancer development. Spatial analysis tools will add another layer of understanding by mapping how cells are organized and interact within tumors. The SCG Core will provide cancer researchers across West Texas access to these transformative tools and training to ensure their effective use. This will accelerate studies into drug resistance, therapeutic target discovery, and treatment strategies, ultimately improving outcomes for cancer patients. By establishing the SCG Core, TTU aims to address the critical need for advanced cancer research resources in the region, fostering innovation and collaboration and driving breakthroughs that extend well beyond West Texas.
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