A case study on the detailed reproducibility of a Human Cell Atlas project

• DOI: 10.1007/s40484-018-0164-3
• Publication Date: 2019-01-24T10:03:22Z
• Authors: Kui Hua; Xuegong Zhang
• Keywords: 0301 basic medicine; 03 medical and health sciences

Background Reproducibility is a defining feature of scientific discovery. can be at different levels for types study. The purpose the Human Cell Atlas (HCA) project to build maps molecular signatures all human cell and states serve as references future discoveries. Constructing such complex reference atlas must involve assembly aggregation data from multiple labs, probably generated with technologies. It has much higher requirements on reproducibility than individual research projects. To add another layer complexity, bioinformatics procedures involved single‐cell have high flexibility diversity. There are many factors in processing analysis RNA‐seq that shape final results ways. Methods study what reached current practices, we conducted detailed reproduction well‐documented recent publication blood dendritic cells an example break down steps crucial levels. Results We found major discovery well reproduced after some efforts, but there also differences details may cause uncertainty reference. This provides case observation on‐going discussions type standards HCA community should take when releasing publications guarantee reliability atlas. Conclusion Current practices not adequate HCA. propose building more stringent guidelines information needs provided along projects evolved program.