Stakes Claim in Emerging Spatial Genomics Space
PLEASANTON, CA.—December 10, 2018—10x Genomics today announced the acquisition of Stockholm-based Spatial Transcriptomics, a pioneer in the emerging field of spatial genomics. The new field enables researchers to not only see what is in a cell but how cells are organized in relation to one another, offering up invaluable insight into understanding disease by using data that was previously beyond the reach of modern methods. This opens up a field of possibilities within disease areas, such as oncology, neurology and immunology, as well as in the broader area of biology.
Today’s announcement builds on a number of recent milestones from 10x Genomics including the acquisition of pioneering epigenetics company Epinomics; introduction of new products; and the expansion of headquarters and manufacturing into Pleasanton, California quadrupling its presence in the city, while creating approximately 200 new jobs.
“10x Genomics is on a quest to unlock a complete understanding of biology, and our recent growth and acquisition activities are accelerating our progress exponentially,” said Serge Saxonov, 10x Genomics’ CEO and co-founder. “We are thrilled to have the Spatial Transcriptomics team join forces with us. 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. It’s another integral piece of the puzzle that gets us closer to seeing the whole picture of biology to drive new discoveries.”
Spatial Transcriptomics was founded on the principle that understanding cells in their morphological context is critical to better understanding genetic activity. The company has developed foundational IP and is the first to capture the transcriptome, all active genes, from tissue section. The Spatial Transcriptomics workflow bridges microscopy and RNA sequencing to generate complete transcriptome data from a single intact tissue sample, and utilizes standard instrumentation for sequencing already present in most labs, allowing for barrier-free adoption.
“The field of genomics has made rapid advances moving from sequencing the human genome to tissue sequencing and then to single cell sequencing in a short period of time,” said Spatial Transcriptomics co-founder Joakim Lundeberg. “Spatial genomic sequencing is the next frontier. With today’s news, 10x has once again proven its commitment to leading our field into the future and we are excited to be partnering to bring this technology to a wider base.”
10x Genomics will continue to operate Spatial Transcriptomics out of their existing offices in Stockholm, with plans to grow their presence in the heart of Sweden’s scientific community. The current team will remain a part of the company. Spatial Transcriptomics co-founders, pioneers in the spatial genomics space will continue to collaborate with the 10x Genomics team.
About 10x Genomics
10x Genomics is committed to paving the way for a new understanding of biology, human health, and disease. The company was founded on the vision that this century will bring unprecedented advances in biomedicine to transform the way we treat diseases leading to dramatic improvements in human health. 10x products enable the acceleration of genetic discoveries through unparalleled resolution and are used in the Human Cell Atlas project as well as by leading biomedical research institutes, pharmaceutical companies, and clinical centers. Founded in 2012, 10x Genomics is financed by marquee global investors including Venrock, Softbank, Foresite Capital, Fidelity, and Meritech Capital. For more information, visit www.10xgenomics.com.
10X, 10X GENOMICS, CHROMIUM and FEATURE BARCODING are registered trademarks or trademarks of 10x Genomics, Inc.
About Spatial Transcriptomics
Spatial Transcriptomics’ technology was originally developed at Science for Life Laboratory in Stockholm, Sweden as a joint project between two of Sweden’s leading universities, Karolinska Institutet and the Royal Institute of Technology (KTH). Spatial Transcriptomics offers technology that allows RNA sequencing to perform in 2D. Several of the largest pharmaceutical companies, as well as leading universities, are among the customers that have adopted their technology.
Media Inquiries
Lizi Sprague, Consort Partners for 10x Genomics
10xgenomics@consortpartners.com