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Single-nucleus transcriptome sequencing reveals hepatic cell atlas in pigs
Jun-Hong Zhu1,2, Xuan-Cheng Guan1,2, Lan-Lan Yi1,2
1Yunnan Key Laboratory of Animal Nutrition and Feed Science, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming, 650201, China.
BMC Genomics
|December 13, 2023
Summary
This study maps pig liver cells using single-nucleus RNA sequencing, identifying seven major cell types and revealing breed-specific variations in cell populations and functions.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Genomics
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The liver is a vital organ for metabolism and immunity in animals.
- The cellular makeup of pig liver tissue is not well understood.
- Accurate characterization of liver cell types is crucial for physiological studies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize the diverse cell types within porcine hepatic tissue.
- To provide a foundational cell atlas for pig liver research.
- To investigate potential variations in cell composition between pig breeds.
Main Methods:
- Single-nucleus RNA sequencing (snRNA-seq) was employed on liver tissues from Dahe and Dahe black pigs.
- Bioinformatic analyses were used to cluster and identify distinct cell populations.
- Functional enrichment analysis was performed on differentially expressed genes within identified cell types.
Main Results:
- Seven distinct cell types were identified: endothelial cells, T cells, hepatocytes, Kupffer cells, stellate cells, B cells, and cholangiocytes.
- Endothelial cells, T cells, and hepatocytes were the most abundant cell types, comprising over 80% of the liver tissue.
- Significant differences in cell numbers and gene expression profiles were observed between Dahe and Dahe black pigs, particularly in endothelial and T cells.
Conclusions:
- This research presents a comprehensive cell atlas of porcine liver tissue.
- Cellular composition, gene expression, and functional characteristics vary between pig breeds.
- The findings offer a valuable resource for future research on pig liver biology and disease.
