Single-cell RNA sequencing has transformed our understanding of the biology of cancer cells and that of nonmalignant cells present in the tumour microenvironment. However, how this new knowledge can be translated into improved outcomes for patients often remains uncertain. In this Review, the authors describe the results of single-cell RNA analyses of samples from patients with cancer with an emphasis on how the findings of these studies have, or are anticipated to lead to, improved patient outcomes, with a focus on four key aspects: refinement of tumour subtyping, characterization of treatment-induced changes, identification of gene expression programmes predictive of treatment response and resistance, and the discovery of novel therapeutic targets.
- Emily Boxer
- Nisan Feigin
- Itay Tirosh
