Spain implements pioneering 3D spatial transcriptomics technology

The National Center for Genomic Analysis (CNAG) in Spain has implemented a pioneering 3D spatial transcriptomics platform. This technology is the first of its kind in Spain and only the third in Europe.

Unlike conventional genomic analysis, which often loses physical context when samples are decomposed, this platform allows researchers to study gene activity while preserving the three-dimensional organization of the tissue. It enables scientists to observe which genes are active in specific cells and exactly where those cells are located within an organ, providing insight into how their position influences their behavior.

This advancement is particularly significant for cancer research. Because tumors consist of diverse cell types interacting within a complex structure, the ability to map cellular activity in three dimensions helps researchers understand tumor evolution and the relationships between neighboring cells. This capability aims to advance biomedical research and move toward more personalized medical treatments.