Single-cell RNA sequencing of human nail unit defines RSPO4 onychofibroblasts and SPINK6 nail epithelium.

ABSTRACT: Research on human nail tissue has been limited by the restricted access to fresh specimen. Here, we studied transcriptome profiles of human nail units using polydactyly specimens. Single-cell RNAseq with 11,541 cells from 4 extra digits revealed nail-specific mesenchymal and epithelial cell populations, characterized by RSPO4 (major gene in congenital anonychia) and SPINK6, respectively. In situ RNA hybridization demonstrated the localization of RSPO4, MSX1 and WIF1 in onychofibroblasts suggesting the activation of WNT signaling. BMP-5 was also expressed in onychofibroblasts implicating the contribution of BMP signaling. SPINK6 expression distinguished the nail-specific keratinocytes from epidermal keratinocytes. RSPO4⁺ onychofibroblasts were distributed at close proximity with

SUBMITTER: Kim HJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8184830 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature