Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Identifies MMP11⁺ Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts as Drivers of Angiogenesis and Bladder Cancer Progression.

ABSTRACT: Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) play a crucial role in tumor progression, with heterogeneity influencing therapeutic response and prognosis, highlighting their potential as viable targets for treatment. In this study, a novel CAF subgroup, MMP11⁺ mCAF is identified, through single-cell RNA sequencing, which accumulates progressively during bladder cancer progression and is significantly associated with poor prognosis. This cell population regulates the migration of tip endothelial cell clusters (ESM1⁺tEC) via the WNT5A-MCAM signaling axis, and modulates the expression of key transcription factors, SOX18, NFIC, and HOXB9. Additionally, MMP11⁺ mCAFs recruit SPP1⁺ macrophages through CCL11/CCL2, promoting VEGFA secretion, which further enhances

SUBMITTER: Xu W 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12407355 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature