Single-cell T-cell landscape in atherosclerosis: implications for targeted therapy and beyond.

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Cardiovascular Research
• Genomics

Background:

• Atherosclerosis (AS) progression is significantly impacted by the complex and changing nature of T-cells.
• Understanding T-cell heterogeneity and plasticity is crucial for comprehending AS pathogenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the latest advancements in single-cell transcriptomic technologies and their impact on AS research.
• To highlight novel T-cell subsets and their roles in atherosclerotic plaque development.

Main Methods:

• Consolidation of recent findings from single-cell transcriptomic studies.
• Application of spatial mapping and temporal analyses to study T-cell distribution and function.
• Integration of multiomics approaches and spatial transcriptomics.

Main Results:

• Identification of previously unrecognized T-cell subsets in atherosclerotic lesions with unique transcriptional profiles.
• Demonstration of T-cell adaptability influenced by the microenvironment and compartment-specific distributions.
• Delineation of transitional states between T-cell lineages, indicating the role of local inflammatory signals.

Conclusions:

• Single-cell RNA sequencing has uncovered significant T-cell heterogeneity and plasticity in AS immunology.
• These discoveries provide a foundation for developing targeted immunotherapies and identifying biomarkers for AS.
• Advancements promise to enhance precision medicine approaches for atherosclerosis patients.