Applications and Prospects of Single-Cell RNA Sequencing and Spatial Transcriptomics in Cervical Cancer

Abstract

Cervical cancer (CC) is the fourth commonest malignant tumor among women worldwide and is characterized by high heterogeneity and a complex ecosystem. A comprehensive understanding of the heterogeneity of tumors and the tumor microenvironment (TME) is crucial for effective CC management. Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is a powerful tool that can be employed to unveil the heterogeneity of tumors and the TME, as well as to elucidate the evolutionary trajectories of tumors. Spatial transcriptomics (ST) technology, on the other hand, can address the complexity and diversity of the spatial microenvironment of tumors, thereby compensating for the limitations of scRNA-seq. As emerging technologies, both scRNA-seq and ST are increasingly being utilized in CC research. In this review, we summarized the latest advancements in scRNA-seq and ST for CC, with a focus on investigating tumor heterogeneity, the TME, tumor evolutionary trajectories, treatment resistance mechanisms, and potential therapeutic targets. These insights collectively contribute to the development of more effective treatment and prevention strategies for CC.