Single-Cell transcriptomic analysis reveals distinct cellular and molecular signatures of human oral mucosa and skin.

ABSTRACT: Oral mucosal wounds heal faster and with minimal scarring compared to skin injuries, yet the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. To explore the cellular and molecular basis of this difference, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on paired, uninjured human oral mucosa and skin tissues from the same donors. This approach enabled the construction of a comprehensive single-cell transcriptomic atlas, facilitating direct comparison of cellular composition, gene expression profiles, and intercellular communication between the two tissues. Our analysis revealed distinct tissue-specific heterogeneity among keratinocytes, fibroblasts, immune cells, and endothelial cells. Oral keratinocytes exhibited signatures associated with proliferation and metabolic activity, while or

SUBMITTER: Shi Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12819937 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature