Table 2.
Comparison between population-level and single-cell analyses.
Single-cell analysis | Population-level analysis | |
---|---|---|
Resolution | Single cell, subcellular | Cell populations |
Data pattern | Distribution/scatter | Average value, standard deviation (based on number of experimental replicates) |
Dimensionality | Multiple (O(10–103)a) markers can be assessed at genomic and mRNA levels, more limited (O(10)) at protein level | Multiple marker (up to O(104) or higher) assessment is possible |
Downstream data processing | Significantly higher | Lower |
Required detection sensitivity | Higher | Lower |
Instrumentation requirements | High | Relatively low |
O(): order of magnitude.