Cardiovascular utility of single cell RNA-Seq.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading causes of morbidity and mortality globally. Single-cell RNA sequencing has the potential to improve diagnostics, risk stratification, and provide novel therapeutic targets that have the potential to improve patient outcomes.

RECENT FINDINGS: Here, we provide an overview of the basic processes underlying single-cell RNA sequencing, including library preparation, data processing, and downstream analyses. We briefly discuss how the technique has been adapted to related medical disciplines, including hematology and oncology, with short term translational impact. We discuss potential applications of this technology within cardiology as well as recent innovative research within the field. We also discuss future directions to translate this technology to other high impact clinical areas.

SUMMARY: The use of single-cell RNA sequencing technology has made significant advancements in the field of cardiology, with ongoing growth in terms of applications and uptake. Most of the current research has focused on structural or atherosclerotic heart disease. Future areas that stand to benefit from this technology include cardiac electrophysiology and cardio-oncology.