Single-cell transcriptomes and chromatin accessibility of endothelial cells unravel transcription factors associated with dysregulated angiogenesis in systemic sclerosis.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Vasculopathy emerges early in systemic sclerosis (SSc) and links to endothelial cell (EC) injury and angiogenesis. Understanding EC transcriptomes and epigenomes is crucial for unravelling the mechanisms involved.

Methods

Transcriptomes and chromatin accessibility were assessed by single-cell RNA sequencing and single-nucleus transposase-accessible chromatin sequencing. Immunofluorescent staining of skin and proteomics assay were employed to confirm the altered SSc EC phenotypes. Gain-of-function assay was used to evaluate the effects of ETS transcription factors on human dermal ECs (hDECs).

Results

Both control and SSc ECs shared transcriptomic signatures of vascular linages (arterial, capillary and venous ECs) and lymphatic ECs. Arterial ECs in SSc showed

SUBMITTER: Huang M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11442142 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Sep

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature