<i>Scleraxis</i>-expressing progenitor cells are critical for the maturation of the annulus fibrosus and demonstrate therapeutic potential.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Annulus fibrosus (AF) is an important part of the intervertebral disc (IVD) and its injury leads to back pain and impaired mobility. The stem/progenitor cells are essential for the maturation and repair of the AF, however, the identity of AF stem/progenitor cells remain elusive.

Methods

In this study, we sorted cells from the murine IVDs and performed the single-cell RNA sequencing. Using single-cell transcriptomics, genetic lineage tracing, in vitro stem cell experiment, ablation models and cell transplantation, we elucidate the role of AF progenitor cells in maturation and injury.

Results

On the basis of single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) analysis of the intervertebral disc, we found that the transcription factor Scleraxis (Scx) c

SUBMITTER: Jia H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12104688 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature