Understanding development and stem cells using single cell-based analyses of gene expression

In recent years, genome-wide profiling approaches have begun to uncover the molecular programs that drive developmental processes. In particular, technical advances that enable genome-wide profiling of thousands of individual cells have provided the tantalizing prospect of cataloging cell type diversity and developmental dynamics in a quantitative and comprehensive manner. Here, we review how single-cell RNA sequencing has provided key insights into mammalian developmental and stem cell biology, emphasizing the analytical approaches that are specific to studying gene expression in single cells. Summary: This Review discusses how single cell RNA sequencing has been used to study developmental and stem cell biology, providing insights into cell type diversity and developmental dynamics.

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