We apply a range of single-cell tools including single cell RNA-seq, CyTOF, and long term live cell lineage tracing. These tools allow us to identify subpopulations of muscle stem cells that differ with respect to gene expression or function but were previously believed to be homogeneous. We apply these tools to compare stem and differentiated cells from young, old, and diseased mice and humans, with emphasis on muscle stem cells and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The resulting knowledge is important for drug development, cell therapies, and personalized medicine.

The Fluidigm system enables captures of up to 96 single cells in microfluidic chambers for single cell RNA-seq.