A groundbreaking method called MATQ-seq is enabling scientists to delve into the intricate world of individual bacterial cells. This advanced technology provides high-resolution gene expression profiles, offering unprecedented insights into how bacteria respond to various stimuli, including stress and antibiotics.
MATQ-seq works by capturing mRNA, which reveals the specific genes that are active within each cell. Unlike previous methods, MATQ-seq retains approximately 95% of the cells, ensuring a more accurate and comprehensive analysis of bacterial behavior. This improved retention rate allows researchers to study even small bacterial populations in host niches or intracellular bacteria.
The technique can detect between 300 and 600 genes per cell, providing deep insights into bacterial states such as metabolism and virulence. By understanding these states, scientists can develop more effective and targeted treatments for infections. The enhanced MATQ-seq protocol incorporates automation, a more efficient reverse transcriptase, and Cas9-based rRNA depletion, leading to reduced cell loss and improved transcript capture. This advancement promises a new era in microbiology, enabling high-resolution profiling of gene activity in complex microbial communities.