The dynamic facets of the cardiac stroma: from classical markers to omics and translational perspectives

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Cell Biology
• Biomedical Science

Background:

• Cardiac stromal cells, including cardiac fibroblasts, have historically been underestimated in their roles.
• Recent single-cell transcriptomic studies reveal significant phenotypic plasticity and diverse populations within the cardiac stroma.
• The complexity of cardiac stromal cells in homeostasis and response to injury is increasingly recognized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current phenotypical and molecular markers for identifying and classifying cardiac stromal cells.
• To synthesize recent advances in understanding cardiac stromal cell populations.
• To provide a foundation for developing novel therapeutic strategies for cardiac conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on cardiac stromal cells.
• Analysis of single-cell transcriptomic data.
• Identification and classification of cell markers and populations.

Main Results:

• The cardiac stroma comprises diverse cell populations with dynamic transcriptional profiles.
• Phenotypic plasticity of cardiac stromal cells is evident in both homeostatic and pathological conditions.
• New markers and classification approaches are emerging for these cell types.

Conclusions:

• A deeper understanding of cardiac stromal cells is crucial for comprehending myocardial function.
• Advances in characterizing these cells offer a platform for novel therapeutic interventions.
• Targeting cardiac stromal populations may counteract cardiac fibrosis and adverse remodeling.