Novel biological insights revealed from cell type-specific expression profiling

Transcriptional regulation plays a major role in defining cell identity. Analysis of cell type-resolution expression profiling datasets is moving beyond cataloging gene expression patterns to reveal novel biological insights. Recently developed expression maps of the shoot apical meristem and gametophytes can be used as tools to help define novel cell types and pathways. Already these maps have revealed cell type-specific epigenetic regulatory mechanisms that play important roles in development. Further examples are provided that demonstrate how cell type-specific expression profiling can also be used to uncover genes and pathways in development and response to stress that would be nearly impossible to identify using traditional genetics.

► High resolution expression maps can refine our definition of cell types in an organ. ► Epigenetic regulators are expressed in a cell type-specific manner. ► Cell type-specific profiling can reveal pathways difficult to discover otherwise. ► Early responses to abiotic stress are cell type-specific. ► Profiling nematode feeding cells may identify targets for engineering resistance.