Single-cell transcriptomics defines heterogeneity of epicardial cells and fibroblasts within the infarcted murine heart.

ABSTRACT: In the adult heart, the epicardium becomes activated after injury, contributing to cardiac healing by secretion of paracrine factors. Here, we analyzed by single-cell RNA sequencing combined with RNA in situ hybridization and lineage tracing of Wilms tumor protein 1-positive (WT1⁺) cells, the cellular composition, location, and hierarchy of epicardial stromal cells (EpiSC) in comparison to activated myocardial fibroblasts/stromal cells in infarcted mouse hearts. We identified 11 transcriptionally distinct EpiSC populations, which can be classified into three groups, each containing a cluster of proliferating cells. Two groups expressed cardiac specification markers and sarcomeric proteins suggestive of cardiomyogenic potential. Transcripts of hypoxia-inducible factor (HIF)-1α an

SUBMITTER: Hesse J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8216715 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature