HIVE Single-Cell TCR Sequencing: Assay Principle and Applications

Abstract

Abstract Biological resolution at the level of individual cells is powering the next phase of precision health. Honeycomb Biotechnologies currently offers an assay for single-cell RNA sequencing with the HIVE™ scRNAseq Solution. The HIVE is a portable, handheld, single-use device that enables gentle capture, robust storage, and easy processing for the analysis of single-cell samples. The HIVE scRNAseq assay integrates sample storage and single-cell profiling into a single workflow, facilitating decentralized collection and centralized processing of samples. The design of the HIVE is ideal for the recovery of fragile cells, loading of large sample volumes, and efficient processing of numerous samples in parallel, particularly valuable for clinical applications. Here, we extend the application of the HIVE by offering a single-cell T cell receptor enrichment and sequencing (scTCRseq) assay. Using the stable whole transcriptome amplification (WTA) product obtained from the scRNAseq assay as the sample input, the HIVE scTCRseq assay enriches TCR in a streamlined target-specific amplification workflow. The assay is compatible with all human tissues, and can accommodate a wide range of cell numbers. We typically achieve over 75% TCR molecule recovery from the WTA, and over 60% sequencing reads are mapped to TCR. Here we also present TCR profiling of several specimens, demonstrating its value in clinical applications. Honeycomb aims to expand single-cell opportunities across basic, translational, and clinical research throughout the world.