This research introduces Spotiphy, a new computational method designed to analyze spatially resolved transcriptomics data with high precision. By integrating single-cell and spatial datasets, the authors examine the complex tissue microenvironment in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and breast cancer. The study successfully identifies specific cell populations, such as disease-associated microglia, and maps their physical proximity to amyloid plaques. Additionally, the researchers utilize these tools to uncover how cell-cell communication and mobility change across different spatial layers within malignant tumors. Through advanced probabilistic modeling, the work provides a clearer understanding of how the location of a cell influences its biological function and role in disease progression.

References:

• Yang J, Zheng Z, Jiao Y, et al. Spotiphy enables single-cell spatial whole transcriptomics across an entire section[J]. Nature Methods, 2025: 1-13.