Single-Cell Transcriptome Profiling Reveals Multicellular Ecosystem of Nucleus Pulposus during Degeneration Progression.

ABSTRACT: Although degeneration of the nucleus pulposus (NP) is a major contributor to intervertebral disc degeneration (IVDD) and low back pain, the underlying molecular complexity and cellular heterogeneity remain poorly understood. Here, a comprehensive single-cell resolution transcript landscape of human NP is reported. Six novel human NP cells (NPCs) populations are identified by their distinct molecular signatures. The potential functional differences among NPC subpopulations are analyzed. Predictive transcripts, transcriptional factors, and signal pathways with respect to degeneration grades are explored. It is reported that fibroNPCs is the subpopulation for end-stage degeneration. CD90+NPCs are observed to be progenitor cells in degenerative NP tissues. NP-infiltrating immune cells comprise

SUBMITTER: Tu J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8787427 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature