Unmasking Budgerigar Splenic Leukocyte Populations With Single-Cell Transcriptomics and Multiplex RNA In Situ Hybridization.

ABSTRACT: The current understanding of the avian immune system primarily stems from research conducted in chickens, given their economic significance as a food source. Extending the research to other avian species like Psittaciformes requires the use of label-free techniques. Therefore, budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus) splenic leukocytes were characterized in this study, with the help of an immunological toolbox, integrating single-cell transcriptomics and multiplex RNA in situ hybridization (ISH). Twenty-four distinct psittacine splenic leukocyte populations were identified and characterized, including, amongst others, germinal center (GC) B cells and regulatory T cells (Tregs). For each of these 24 populations, markers were defined for subsequent use in immunological assays. To f

SUBMITTER: De Meyst A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12511316 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature