Single-Cell Proteomics Uncovers Dual Traits of Dermal Sheath Cells in Wound Repair

Wound healing is a dynamic process involving multiple cell types and signaling pathways. Dermal sheath cells (DSCs), residing surrounding hair follicles, play a critical role in tissue repair, yet their regulatory mechanisms remain unclear. This study used single-cell proteomics with the Acan^CreER;R26^{LSL-tdTomato-DTR} mouse model to explore DSC function across different healing stages. All animal procedures were conducted in accordance with the Animal Research: Reporting of In Vivo Experiments guidelines. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) and temporal clustering (Mfuzz) were employed to reveal dynamic functional shifts. GSEA identified enriched gene sets related to interferon-gamma response, inflammatory response, ultraviolet response, myogenesis, and xenobiotic metabolism. Temporal clustering revealed eight distinct clusters: clusters associated with the early contracting and proliferative phases were linked to metabolic activation and oxidative stress, while clusters from the later remodeling phase emphasized extracellular matrix remodeling and structural reorganization. The dynamic expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition-related genes and keratins supported DSCs' dual epithelial and mesenchymal traits. Additionally, keratins, collagens, integrins, and actin proteins emerged as promising markers or signature molecules for DSCs. This study reveals DSCs' dual traits during wound repair, providing a basis for therapies to enhance healing.