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Noninvasive methods to monitor dynamic single-cell events

Year: 2026
Type: review
Abstract: Adaptations to changing environments manifest in various cellular activities across multiple timescales, where single-cell responses can occur asynchronously between individual cells. Hence, accurate delineation of transient or rare activities often requires real-time monitoring of single cells over hours or days. While great strides have been made in the throughput of molecular analysis methodologies, most biochemical methods are cell destructive and, therefore, can only provide snapshots of dynamic processes. Noninvasive observations of natural cell behaviors offer unique insights into key dynamic events. In this feature review article, we discuss current toolkits for monitoring real-time dynamics of diverse cellular activities in living cells, as well as their advantages and challenges. We also speculate on new avenues for noninvasive single-cell monitoring that will be feasible in the foreseeable future.
DOI: 10.1016/j.tcb.2026.03.013
Authors: Robin E.C. Lee, Jason Yeung, Thomas Mumford, Lukasz Bugaj, Matthew J. Daniels, John Stanley, Nader Pourmand, Katie G. Vineall, Danielle L. Schmitt, Shah Md Toufiqur Rahman, Myong-Hee Sung
Institutions: University of Pittsburgh, University of Pennsylvania, University of California, Santa Cruz, University of California, Los Angeles, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging
Language: English
Subfield: Biophysics
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $7,030
Funders: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Achievement Rewards for College Scientists Foundation, National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging, National Institute of General Medical Sciences, Intramural Research Program
OpenAlex ID: W7154273869
FWCI: 1.631
Cites: 187
Cited by: 2
Related to: 10