Human Single-Cell Classification: Mapping the Cells Inside Tumors
A Case Study in Precision Medicine — Before Stella Nova Began
At Stella Nova, we specialize in transforming complex scientific challenges into practical solutions that support next-generation medical innovation. One of Dr. Wiwattananon highlights this commitment through a collaboration on a high-impact project in the field of precision medicine prior to establishing Stella Nova.
What is Human Single-Cell Classification?
This project focused on classifying various lymphocyte cell types found within human tumor, both before and after pharmaceutical treatment. The goal was to determine how specific drug candidates affect the immune response at the cellular level — an essential step toward personalized medicine.
The study leveraged a reference dataset of over 108,000 single cells and approximately 3,000 genes, compiled by Idorsia Pharmaceuticals Ltd., in Basel Switzerland. We developed machine learning models capable of accurately distinguishing cell types with up to 96% accuracy. Beyond classification, our models also identified key gene expression patterns, providing biological insights into which genes drive each classification
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Dr. Wiwattananon’s Role in a Human Single-Cell Classification Project:
As one of two lead data scientists on this project, Dr. Wiwattananon worked alongside a biologist with deep expertise in genetics and development. Together, we designed and tested various machine learning strategies to create a robust classification scheme for different lymphocyte cell types.
Our responsibilities spanned:
Data exploration and preprocessing
Model design and evaluation
Feature importance analysis
Project planning and scope management
Final business presentation to stakeholders from Idorsia
In addition to the technical work, Dr. Wiwattananon led the project management, including planning, timeline coordination, and stakeholder communication to ensure the project stayed on track and aligned with Idorsia Pharmaceuticals’ goals. The project concluded with a final presentation to their research team, highlighting both technical outcomes and their potential impact on drug development.
Our interdisciplinary approach and agile coordination were instrumental in successfully delivering a scalable solution for Idorsia’s research pipelines.
What This Means for Stella Nova’s Clients
The success of this case study underscores the power of combining machine learning, biological insight, and strategic project management. For clients in the pharmaceutical, Medtech, and biotech industries, it demonstrates how Stella Nova can help:
Build high-performing models with interpretable results
Manage interdisciplinary projects with clear communication and delivery
Contribute to research that accelerates real-world therapeutic breakthroughs
Accelerate drug development through predictive modeling
Translate scientific results into strategic business outcomes
Whether you’re in pharmaceuticals, MedTech, or high-tech R&D, we bring deep technical skills and strategic thinking to help you move from raw data to impactful solutions.
Ready to work with a team pushing the boundaries of your research?
Let's discuss how we can bring this same innovative approach to your next project.
