High-resolution single-cell RNA-seq data and heterogeneity analysis of human ESCs and ffEPSCs

Area of Science:

• Stem Cell Biology
• Developmental Biology
• Genomics

Background:

• Human embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are crucial for studying early human development.
• Understanding cellular heterogeneity within pluripotent stem cell populations is essential.
• Extended pluripotent stem cells (ffEPSCs) offer a model for early developmental stages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To perform a comprehensive transcriptomic analysis of ESCs and ffEPSCs.
• To identify distinct cell subpopulations and their gene expression profiles.
• To elucidate molecular pathways governing the transition to extended pluripotency and the role of repeat elements.

Main Methods:

• Smart-seq2-based single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) for gene expression profiling.
• Pseudotime analysis to map developmental transitions between cell states.
• Repeat sequence analysis utilizing the T2T database.

Main Results:

• Identification of distinct subpopulations within both ESCs and ffEPSCs.
• Mapping of the transition process from ESCs to ffEPSCs, revealing key molecular pathways.
• Discovery of stage-specific repeat elements influencing pluripotency and developmental regulation.

Conclusions:

• This study provides novel insights into the heterogeneity of human pluripotency.
• The findings highlight the significant role of repeat sequences in early embryonic development.
• The generated dataset serves as a valuable resource for stem cell research, regenerative medicine, and cell therapy.