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Breakthroughs in spatial biology

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This special feature explores how researchers are examining the microenvironment of complex tumors, and highlights the recent advancements in microscopy and the latest discoveries driving progress in spatial biology research

17 Sept 2023
Lawrence Howes
Editorial Assistant

Editorial article

Microbiome Special Feature

Spatial biology is a dynamic and interdisciplinary field, which has emerged as a powerful lens through which we can examine the spatial organization and interactions of biological entities within complex ecosystems. Spatial biology combines techniques from genomics, imaging, and computational biology, which allows us to explore the spatial relationships of molecules, cells, and organisms. The field has made remarkable advancements over recent years, driven by innovative technologies that enable us to visualize and analyze biological processes with precision.

In this special feature, we will shed light on the latest technological breakthroughs in spatial biology and their transformative impact on the field. We will explore innovations that empower researchers to study the microenvironment of complex tumors, and will examine the evolution of microscopy, which has advanced to generate reliable and diverse datasets.

1. Exploring the tumor microenvironment in pancreatic cancer

Learn how the Cell DIVE multiplex imager, combined with AI, reveals a detailed view of the tumor microenvironment. By leveraging dozens of biomarkers, users can reduce tumor heterogeneity, accurately define cells in hypoxic and normoxic PDAC regions, and in normal pancreatic tissue with Cell Dive from Leica Microsystems.


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2. Quantitative microscopy for precision spatial biology

In this article, Dr. Zbigniew Mikulski explores how microscopy has evolved, and highlights the important features that modern technology needs to produce reliable, diverse data. Mikulski also offers insights into how to plan and carry out experiments to ensure trustworthy and consistent results with RareCyte.


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3. Bringing spatial biology to the clinic

Spatial transcriptomics pioneer, Dr. Arutha Kulasinghe, senior research fellow and principal investigator at the University of Queensland, shares his latest work in understanding the underlying tumor biology using an integrative multi-omics approach, and how it could inform therapy decisions.


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4. Exploring the power of super-resolution microscopy

In this article, Winfried Wiegraebe, product manager of super-resolution microscopy at Bruker, discusses how single-molecule localization microscopy can image subcellular structures deep within samples to reveal novel biological insights.


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Upgrade your spatial biology toolkit with these key resources:

  • Microscopy techniques: In this free eBook, explore key microscopy techniques, across the spatial biology workflow, including multiplexing, super-resolution microscopy, and AI-enabled spatial analysis. Download guide >>
  • Multi-omic multiplexing: Discover a series of case studies illustrating how a multi-omic multiplexing approach can be leveraged to gain a comprehensive view of spatial biology, including a multiplexed in situ transcriptomic method for the spatial mapping of target genes. Download guide >>
  • Tissue heterogeneity: Learn how coupling single-cell approaches with new spatial analyses of gene expression is enabling researchers to see biology in new ways through significant shifts in spatial resolution and scale.
    Download guide >>

Read reviews on technology advancing the field of spatial biology

Find out what researchers around the world are saying about the products they use, including Ayse Akarca, from University College London, who shared his thoughts on the PhenoImager™ HT from Akoya Biosciences:

"The product is quite good and user-friendly. It helps imaging and analysis as it has a built-in image analysis facility. Cool machine."


Photo of PhenoImager™ HT by Akoya Biosciences
PhenoImager™ HT by Akoya Biosciences


Ease of use: 5/5

After sales service: 5/5

Value for money: 4/5





Want to share your opinion on the products in your lab? Leave a review now and you could win a $400 Amazon gift card.


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PhenoImager® HT

Akoya Biosciences

PhenoImager ® HT (formerly Vectra ® Polaris™) is the fastest and most highly cited whole-slide, single-cell resolution imaging platform for spatial phenotyping and the development of spatial signatures. Featuring Akoya’s patented Multispectral Imaging (MSI) and spectral unmixing technologies, this platform can be easily integrated into high-throughput workflows to accommodate projects regardless of your scale. 

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BiosensorsBiosensors are devices used to detect an analyte using biological molecules specific to the analyte coupled to a detector. Biosensor instruments may be photometric, typically using surface plasma resonance (SPR), electrochemical or QCM (quartz crystal microbalance) biosensors. Biosensors should be selective, portable, robust and sensitive and have a fast response time. Systems may be manual or automated and usually have associated software.BiomarkersBiomarkers are biological markers which can be measured and evaluated to indicate a biological state. The use of biomarkers in research and diagnosis can indicate a normal or disease state or drug response of cells / tissues. Biomarkers include genetic markers, cell surface markers such as antigens, antibodies or receptors and secreted molecules such as cytokines. An assay system is required for identification of biomarkers. :In Vivo Imaging Systems<i>In vivo</i> imaging systems, including pre-clinical imaging systems and medical imaging systems are used to non-invasively visualize and capture images of live animals and plants. Monitor the natural processes or diseases of your subjects using small-animal pre-clinical imaging systems, including single photon positron emission tomography (SPECT), positron emission tomography (PET), computed tomography (micro-CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), X-ray radiography, ultrasound, fluorescence and bioluminescence imagers. Multimodal systems and software solutions are also available for correlative analysis of organ, tissue, cell, or molecular-level processes. Find the best in vivo imaging products in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Light MicroscopyLight microscopes or optical microscopes are used to visualize microscale objects under magnification, including cells, clinical specimens and materials. Lab equipment for light microscopy includes confocal microscopes, fluorescence microscopes, zoom and stereo microscopes. Microscope slides and imaging reagents are available for visualizing samples, as well as various microscope stages and incubators for large or temperature-sensitive samples. Find the best light microscopes in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.Atomic Force Microscopy / Scanning Tunneling MicroscopyAtomic force microscopes (AFM) and scanning tunneling microscopes (STM) are high-resolution forms of scanning probe microscope (SPM) used to generate topological information of a sample down to the atomic scale. Instruments can generate an image of the surface topology, manipulate objects and reveal information on localized properties such as Young’s modulus, conductivity, and magnetism. High-quality STM and AFM probes optimized for your application are available, as well as other SPM-based instruments such as scanning ion conductance microscopes (SICM) & near-field scanning optical microscopes (NSOM). Find the best AFM and STM equipment in our peer-reviewed product directory: compare products, check customer reviews and receive pricing direct from manufacturers.ProteomicsProteomics is the systemic bioinformatics study of proteins and amino acids, including their structure, size, function and identification. Tools used in proteomics include chromatography, blotting and gels, protein arrays, mass spectrometry and ELISA and associated analysis software. Analyzers and proteomic systems should be sensitive, high resolution, fast and may be automated for high-throughput.Cancer ResearchCancer research aims to understand the mechanisms of cancer development and progression to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. From molecular biology to clinical trials, research spans a wide range of disciplines, including immunotherapy, targeted therapies, and drug discovery. Explore the best cancer research products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Cell BiologyCell biology studies the structure, function, and behavior of cells. Understanding cellular processes is essential for research in areas such as cancer biology, stem cell research, and neurobiology. Techniques like flow cytometry, microscopy, and cell culture enable researchers to explore cellular mechanisms in detail. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to find the best cell biology tools and equipment, compare products, check customer reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.TumorsTumor research focuses on understanding abnormal cell growth that leads to cancer. Identifying biomarkers, studying tumor microenvironments, and developing targeted therapies are critical for advancing cancer treatment. Early detection and personalized treatment options are key to improving outcomes for patients. Browse our peer-reviewed product directory to explore tools for tumor research, diagnostics, and cancer therapies; compare products, read customer reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Cancer DiagnosticsThere are a wide variety of diagnostic tests for cancer available, and this range continues to expand as our knowledge of cancer improves. Current diagnostic methods include biopsy, imaging and blood tests for known biomarkers. New methods in research development include liquid biopsies and cancer breathalyzers.MicroscopyMicroscopy is a technique used to observe small objects in detail, from cells to materials, using light or electron microscopes. It enables researchers to examine structures with high resolution, aiding in fields such as biology, medicine, and materials science. With advanced microscopy techniques, scientists can gain insights into cellular processes, tissue structures, and material properties. Explore the best microscopy solutions in our peer-reviewed product directory, compare products, read customer reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Quantitative AnalysesQuantitative analyses involve measuring the amount or concentration of a substance in a sample using analytical techniques. These analyses are essential in fields like chemistry, biology, and environmental science. Explore quantitative analysis tools in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Fluorescence MicroscopyFluorescence microscopy has become an essential tool in biology, as well as in materials science. The application of many fluorochromes has made it possible to identify cells and sub-microscopic cellular components with a high degree of specificity. Using multiple fluorescence labels, different probes can simultaneously identify several target molecules.Clinical ChemistryClinical chemistry involves the analysis of bodily fluids, like blood and urine, to diagnose and monitor diseases. Tests in clinical chemistry provide critical information for patient care and treatment decisions. Explore clinical chemistry tools in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.Tissue ProcessingTissue processing involves preparing biological tissue samples for microscopic analysis, including fixation, embedding, and sectioning. This process is essential for histopathology and diagnostic applications. Explore tissue processing products in our peer-reviewed product directory; compare products, check reviews, and get pricing directly from manufacturers.

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