Single Cell Nebula  

This dynamic image represents hundreds of thousands of blood-producing bone marrow cells in the human body, scattered like stars across the cosmos. By mapping this cellular universe – much like exploring a nebula to uncover hidden secrets – vital clues may be revealed for advancing human health. Researcher Reza used UMAP, a method for simplifying complex data, to project expression of thousands of genes per cell into three dimensions.

Using a technique known as unsupervised learning, cells are grouped based on their intrinsic similarities, without prior labels, enabling the discovery of novel or rare cells. Exploring these colour-coded groups within the swirling nebula, may reveal diagnostic markers or therapeutic targets for diseases like leukaemia and deepen our understanding of the molecular biology of haematopoiesis.

Artist

• Reza Ghamsari