Quantitative evidence for early metastatic seeding in colorectal cancer | Nature Genetics
Both the timing and molecular determinants of metastasis are unknown, hindering treatment and prevention efforts. Here researchers characterize the evolutionary dynamics of this lethal process by analyzing exome-sequencing data from 118 biopsies from 23 patients with colorectal cancer with metastases to the liver or brain. The data show that the genomic divergence between the primary tumor and metastasis is low and that canonical driver genes were acquired early.
MULTI-seq: sample multiplexing for single-cell RNA sequencing using lipid-tagged indices | Nature Methods
Sample multiplexing facilitates scRNA-seq by reducing costs and identifying artifacts such as cell doublets. Scientists developed MULTI-seq: multiplexing using lipid-tagged indices for single-cell and single-nucleus RNA sequencing. MULTI-seq reagents can barcode any cell type or nucleus from any species with an accessible plasma membrane.
Facebook announces Libra cryptocurrency: All you need to know | TechCrunch
Facebook has finally revealed the details of its cryptocurrency, Libra, which will let you buy things or send money to people with nearly zero fees. You’ll pseudonymously buy or cash out your Libra online or at local exchange points like grocery stores, and spend it using interoperable third-party wallet apps or Facebook’s own Calibra wallet that will be built into WhatsApp, Messenger and its own app. Today Facebook released its white paper explaining Libra and its testnet for working out the kinks of its blockchain system before a public launch in the first half of 2020.