On the afternoon of 10th December 2024, the Biomed-X Seminar No. 122 of Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Institute was successfully held at A203, ZJE Building. Invited by researcher Wanlu Liu, Professor Shou-wen Wang gave an academic report on “High-resolution, noninvasive single-cell lineage tracing in mice and humans based on DNA methylation epimutations”.
Professor Wang is committed to single-cell lineage tracking technology. In vivo lineage tracing holds great potential to reveal fundamental principles of tissue development and homeostasis. Here, Prof. Wang's team developed a generic lineage tracing tool based on frequent epimutations on DNA methylation, enabled by our new computational method MethylTree. Using single-cell genome-wide DNA methylation datasets with known lineage and phenotypic labels, MethylTree reconstructed lineage histories at nearly 100% accuracy across different cell types, developmental stages, and species. We demonstrated the epimutation-based single-cell multi-omic lineage tracing in mouse and human blood, where MethylTree recapitulated the differentiation hierarchy in hematopoiesis. Applying MethylTree to human embryos, we revealed early fate commitment at the four-cell stage. In native mouse blood, we identified ~250 clones of hematopoietic stem cells. MethylTree opens the door for high-resolution, noninvasive, and multi-omic lineage tracing in humans and beyond.
During the event, faculty and students actively engaged in discussions, demonstrating their open-minded approach to academic exploration and critical thinking about research questions. Professor Wang patiently and thoroughly answered every question, deepening the understanding and insights of participants in this field.
As the 122nd session of the Biomed-X Seminar series, this report underscores the institute's commitment to fostering high-level academic exchanges through its academic brand building efforts. The institute will continue to provide a platform for faculty and students to engage in cutting-edge scientific discussions.
