Single-cell transcriptome atlas in C57BL/6 mice encodes morphological phenotypes in the aging kidneys

Area of Science:

• Nephrology
• Developmental Biology
• Genomics

Background:

• C57BL/6 mice are a standard model for genetic research.
• A comprehensive atlas of kidney development and single-cell transcriptome in C57BL/6 mice is lacking.
• Understanding kidney development is crucial for various research applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a detailed kidney morphology and single-cell transcriptome atlas for C57BL/6 mice across all life stages.
• To investigate kidney development from the capillary-loop stage to senescence.
• To provide reference standards for the scientific community.

Main Methods:

• Utilized eight age groups of C57BL/6 mice, from embryonic to post-senescence stages.
• Performed comprehensive kidney morphology analysis.
• Generated single-cell transcriptome data to analyze cellular and molecular changes.

Main Results:

• Documented age-dependent increases in glomerular basement membrane (GBM) thickness.
• Observed the emergence and increased prevalence of GBM knobs starting at three months of age.
• Identified cell-type specific biological processes and potential mechanisms for GBM knob formation using transcriptomic data.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a novel and comprehensive resource of kidney morphology and single-cell transcriptome maps for C57BL/6 mice.
• This atlas covers all developmental stages, offering valuable insights into renal development and aging.
• The findings will aid biological research and the development of therapeutic strategies for kidney diseases.