Abstract: In alternative embodiments, provided are compositions, including products of manufacture and kits, and methods, for in situ spatial profiling of biological materials such as DNA, RNA and protein in cells, tissues, and organisms for investigating biology and for conducting biomarker/drug discovery and development, and for clinical pathology and diagnosis. In alternative embodiments, provided are compositions, including products of manufacture and kits, and methods, for spatially determining, visualizing or quantifying target biological materials comprising in situ staining of a biological sample with one or a plurality of probes that are labeled with light-emitting moieties that exhibit or are encoded with distinct luminescence lifetime (and, optionally, spectrum) characteristics; followed by time-resolved luminescence imaging, measurement and analysis.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods for detecting a target in a sample; methods for modulating the reporting intensity of a labeled target in a sample of fixed cells or tissues; methods for detecting the location of at least two targets in a sample; and related compositions.

Abstract: Provided are methods for detecting and treating disease states, including cancer, diabetes, fibrosis, and autoimmune diseases, by detecting increased mechanical modulus, or stiffness, or targeting tissues having increased mechanical modulus, or stiffness. Practicing these methods provides specific and localized detection assays and therapies for these disease states. Provided are mechano-responsive cell systems that can selectively detect and treat cancer metastases by targeting the unique biophysical and mechanical properties in the tumor microenvironment. Provided are methods for making mechano-sensitive CAR T cells by using mechano-responsive promoter logic. Provided are blood tests using engineered stem cells that express reporters after the cells home to a specific niche and secrete the reporter into the blood, which can be then be detected with a blood test.

Abstract: The present invention generally relates to methods for detecting a target in a sample; methods for modulating the reporting intensity of a labeled target in a sample of fixed cells or tissues; methods for detecting the location of at least two targets in a sample; and related compositions.