Single-cell RNA sequencing identifies long non-coding RNAs enriched in psoriatic epidermal subsets

Area of Science:

• Dermatology
• Genomics
• Molecular Biology

Background:

• Psoriasis involves skin cell dysfunction due to poor communication between keratinocytes and immune cells.
• The role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in this epidermal dysfunction is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To create a single-cell atlas of lncRNA expression in healthy and psoriatic skin.
• To identify lncRNAs specific to certain cell states and associated with psoriasis.

Main Methods:

• Single-cell RNA sequencing (Smart-seq2) of epidermal cells (CD45+ and CD45-) from healthy and psoriatic skin.
• Validation of key lncRNAs using RT-qPCR, RNAscope, and immunofluorescence.
• Investigating LINC01137 regulation and function in keratinocytes.

Main Results:

• Identified 1412 epidermal lncRNAs with cell type-specific expression.
• Found lncRNAs selectively expressed in psoriasis-associated cell states.
• LINC01137, enriched in activated keratinocytes, influences TGF-β signaling; LINC00892 is found in lesional T cells.

Conclusions:

• This research maps the single-cell lncRNA landscape of psoriatic epidermis.
• Distinct lncRNA signatures in keratinocytes and immune cells suggest their role in psoriasis pathogenesis.