Pleasanton, CA 12/10/18—10x Genomics, a provider of tools for understanding biology, human health and disease, has purchased Spatial Transcriptomics for an undisclosed amount. The field of spatial genomics addresses how cells are organized in relation to each other, with 10x stating that Spatial Transcriptomics’ technology was the “first to capture the transcriptome, all active genes, from tissue section.” “We are thrilled to have the Spatial Transcriptomics team join forces with us,” commented 10x Genomics CEO and Co-founder Serge Saxonov. “Now, researchers will not only be able to understand what is happening within a cell but also understand where cellular activities are happening in relation to one another.” Spatial Transcriptomics will remain headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden. The company’s cofounders will continue to collaborate with the business.

According to a 10x spokesperson, the company currently employs 380 people. Regarding Spatial Transcriptomics, she told IBO, “Throughout 2019, 10x Genomics plan to expand its presence in Sweden and will continue to grow its employee base.” She said that Spatial Transcriptomics’ technology adds growth opportunities for the company in the fields of oncology, neurology and immunology. Using glass array and barcoding technologies, Spatial Transcriptomics’ workflow maps the tissue section’s cell for RNA sequencing followed by microscope for tissue alignment. No dedicated instrumentation is required.