Multi-step genomics on single cells and live cultures in sub-nanoliter capsules

Single-cell genomics encompasses a set of methods whereby hundreds to millions of cells are individually subjected to multiplexed assays including sequencing DNA, chromatin accessibility or modification, RNA, or combinations thereof 1,2. These methods enable unbiased, systematic discovery of cellular phenotypes and their dynamics 1–3. Many functional genomic methods, however, require multiple steps that cannot be easily scaled to high throughput, including assays on living cells. Here we develop capsules with amphiphilic gel envelopes (CAGEs), which selectively retain cells, mRNA, and gDNA, while allowing free diffusion of media, enzymes and reagents. CAGEs enable carrying out high-throughput assays that require multiple steps, including combining genomics with live-cell assays. We establish methods for barcoding CAGE DNA and RNA libraries, and apply them to measure persistence of gene expression programs by capturing the transcriptomes of tens of thousands of expanding clones in CAGEs. The compatibility of CAGEs with diverse enzymatic reactions will facilitate the expansion of the current repertoire of single-cell, high-throughput measurements and extend them to live-cell assays.