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Single-cell transcriptome profiling reveals distinct expression patterns among genes in the mouse incisor dental pulp
Badam Enkhmandakh1, Dashzeveg Bayarsaihan1,2
1Center for Regenerative Medicine and Skeletal Development, Department of Reconstructive Sciences, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA.
The International Journal of Developmental Biology
|April 20, 2023
Summary
SOX transcription factors are crucial for cell differentiation. This study reveals their specific roles in mouse incisor mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs), highlighting their regulation of osteoblast differentiation.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Stem Cell Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- SOX (SRY-related HMG-box) transcription factors are vital for cell differentiation and fate determination.
- Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells critical for tissue regeneration and development, including osteogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the expression profiles of SOX genes in mouse incisor dental pulp MSCs.
- To understand the regulatory roles of SOX factors in osteoblast differentiation.
Main Methods:
- Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) was employed to analyze gene expression in mouse incisor dental pulp.
- Protein-protein interaction network analysis was performed to identify interacting partners of key regulatory genes.
Main Results:
- SOX4, SOX5, SOX9, SOX11, and SOX12 were predominantly expressed in osteogenic MSCs.
- SOX genes co-expressed with known osteogenic regulatory genes (e.g., SP7, SATB2, RUNX2, LEF1).
- Key interacting partners of RUNX2 and LEF1 involved in skeletal development were identified.
Conclusions:
- Distinct expression patterns of SOX transcription factors in MSCs suggest critical roles in regulating lineage-specific gene expression.
- SOX factors are essential regulators of osteoblast differentiation in the mouse incisor dental pulp.
