SOAR elucidates disease mechanisms and empowers drug discovery through spatial transcriptomics

Abstract

Spatial transcriptomics provides researchers with a better understanding of gene expression within the tissue context. Although large volumes of spatial transcriptomics data have been generated, the lack of systematic curation and analysis makes data reuse challenging. Herein, we present Spatial transcriptOmics Analysis Resource (SOAR), a resource with an extensive, systematically compiled collection of spatial transcriptomics data across tissues, organs, and pathological conditions. SOAR is a comprehensive database with uniformly processed and annotated samples, facilitating future benchmark studies and method development. SOAR also offers multi-pronged analysis capability, including an integrative approach toward drug discovery that allows for efficient exploration of novel and targeted therapeutic uses for existing compounds.